Cold Lake Healthcare Centre heliport temporarily closed for upgrades

COLD LAKE — The heliport at Cold Lake Healthcare Centre will be temporarily closed to allow for upgrades to improve safety and efficiency.

Starting on May 7, all STARS helicopters will land at the nearby Cold Lake airport, which is approximately nine minutes away. Ground ambulances will be used to transport patients to and from the health centre and airport.

This is common practice in other communities across the province. It is a safe option.

Renovations to the heliport will include upgrades to the mechanical snowmelt heating system to continue to ensure staff and patient safety. Upgrades to mechanical components below ground will result in minor landscaping around the heliport.

Work on the heliport will not impact any staff or public parking or access to entrances. Upgrades are expected to be completed in late June, at which time the heliport will re-open.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

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