Building a New Nithview project reaches a milestone

The new Nithview long-term care home in New Hamburg is taking shape and the development has reached its halfway point. It is expected to open next summer. Photo courtesy of Tri-County Mennonite Homes

By Lee Griffi

The Tri-County Mennonite Homes’ (TCMH) “Building a New Nithview” construction development has reached its halfway point.

Completion of the 28-month project is scheduled to open in the summer of 2027, and the organization expects the home to house 160 residents by the fall.

“Construction began in February 2025, and it hasn’t stopped since. Despite the long, snowy winter this year, the project continues on time without any delays,” said a TCMH press release. “Over the winter months, structural steel framing was finished, the roof was installed and interior steel framing was started. Currently, interior steel framing is completed up to the fifth floor.”

“I’m very excited to see the project's progress and to watch the building take shape. It’s hard to believe that 14 months ago, we were clearing the snow off the site and watching the first pieces of equipment arrive,” said TCMH CEO Steven Harrison. “Now, at the halfway point in the project, the building is standing tall and we are starting to see what the final product is going to look like.” 

Director of communications Emily Shannon said the current residents are excited to see the new building take shape.

“Many will sit in the windows and the lounges to watch the construction work. Others walk or take their scooters out to the front of the construction site for an even closer vantage. There is lots of buzz about the project and people are eager to see it completed.” 

She added TCMH is receiving quite a few questions about the project from the general public, including when it will be open for business.

“People want to know when the building will be completed and how the construction phases are going. Most of them are very supportive of the project and are happy to hear about the progress.” 

Once opened, the long-term care home will grow from 97 to 160 beds, and all residents in the former home will be transferred over.

“Behind the scenes is still very much focused on construction. The senior director for facilities management and team is just starting to look for the furnishings and pieces that will fill the building, and we expect that phase of work to begin in earnest in the coming months,” said Shannon.

“We’ll need to purchase everything from beds to dishware to the artwork that goes on the walls, basically everything that will make the building into a home for the residents when we open.”

Internal discussions about staffing needs and operational requirements in the new building are beginning.

“Generally, recruitment will increase over the next 12 months to have people ready to work when the home opens in 2027,” Shannon said.

Concrete pouring for floors was completed in late March, and work on the waterproof membranes has begun around windows and roof parapets. Window installation will begin soon and should be completed in July. 

“Melloul Blamey (Construction), the general contractor, continues to be exemplary to work with. They are managing the construction schedule and adjusting the schedule where needed to ensure the project remains on track,” said the release.

The Township of Wilmot’s upcoming road work on Victoria and Boullee streets is not expected to cause any delays or access issues for the construction site.

“Coordination with the township is ongoing to ensure access to both the construction site and the current home. Staff, families and all emergency services will be able to access the front door of Nithview during the roadwork,” added Shannon.