MONCTON (GNB) – The contract to build a 60-bed nursing home in Moncton has been awarded to Shannex Inc.

“Investing in long-term care for seniors is a priority for our government,” said Social Development Minister Cathy Rogers. “Along with investments in our Home First Strategy to support seniors remaining in their homes and communities, we are also addressing the need for more nursing home beds.”

The new nursing home will be located on the campus of Université de Moncton.

Shannex will also construct a retirement living home, a special care home and lifestyle apartments.

“This is an exciting project because it is an example of innovation and partnerships that fit our vision of excellence in aging where seniors are active and engaged; where there is a focus on wellness and healthy aging; where each new chapter of life brings new beginnings; and where the right services and supports are available to each individual throughout their journey,” Rogers said.

The entire campus development represents an investment of $50 million by Shannex in the first phase and will create about 150 jobs in a variety of occupations including health care and hospitality services.

“We are pleased to have been selected as the provider of a 60-bed nursing home for the Moncton area,” said Jason Shannon, president and chief operating officer of Shannex Inc. “This award creates capacity for seniors waiting for long-term care and has also inspired an innovative partnership between Shannex and Université de Moncton.”

In addition to the nursing home that will be built by Shannex, another 60 beds were announced for the Moncton area to address the growing need.

“According to the 2011-2016 Nursing Home Renovation and Replacement Plan, the Greater Moncton area has one of the highest demands for nursing home beds,” said Rogers. “Therefore, an additional 60 beds will be built through the Request for Proposals process.”