The city is paving the way for planners of Ronald McDonald House to buy additional property for $1 near Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre.
On Monday, city council gave first reading towards plans to sell a portion of unconstructed lane directly behind three lots that Ronald McDonald House Central Alberta has earmarked south of the hospital on 50 Avenue. The lane would free up an additional 2,400 square feet towards the project.
Ronald McDonald House Central Alberta will develop a three-storey that will serve families of critically ill babies and high-risk pregnancies. An estimated 400 families annually are expected to stay at the Red Deer house where they will enjoy home-cooked meals, private bedrooms and playrooms for children.
“I am delighted this is coming forward,” said Councillor Gail Parks. “It speaks well of Red Deer — that they want to do this in our city.”
“You are taking a piece of land that would likely be sold to no one else,” added city manager Craig Curtis.
The $10-million project is expected to look similar to the spacious modern Ronald McDonald House in Calgary.
Plans include underground parking, a craft room, laundry facilities, a playground and a TV/multipurpose room.