Campbellford, ON — Ontario Premier Doug Ford visited Campbellford today to announce a significant provincial investment of $2.5 million to support early planning for a new Campbellford Memorial Hospital, as part of the government’s broader commitment to strengthening healthcare and infrastructure in rural communities.
Speaking to a local crowd, Premier Ford emphasized the close-knit spirit of rural Ontario and praised the community’s dedication to advancing the hospital project. “This wouldn’t happen without each and every one of you,” he said. “It’s great to be here in beautiful Campbellford.”
Ford also highlighted a personal connection to the region, noting that his mother’s maiden name was “Campbell,” jokingly linking the town’s name with his family’s.
The Premier was joined by MPP David Piccini, whom he repeatedly praised for his persistent advocacy for the project over the past eight years. “If you want to learn about customer service and taking care of your community, look at David,” Ford said. “He’s been on me every day about this.”
The $2.5 million commitment is intended to kick-start planning for a modern healthcare facility that will replace the aging existing hospital. Plans include not just a hospital but 128 long-term care beds (which the Premier described as homes), a new medical building with expanded health services, and 50 affordable, barrier-free housing units for those in need.
Premier Ford also commended hospital leadership, including Jeff Hohenkerk, Carrie Gregoire, John Russell, and Martha MacDonald, as well as local healthcare workers and nurses — some of whom were born at the hospital and now work there.
He gave special thanks to local philanthropist Jim Bristow, whose donation of 48 acres of land has been pivotal in making the hospital redevelopment project possible. “Hospitals don’t get built without philanthropists like you,” said Ford. “I can’t wait to come back here for the ribbon cutting.”
Ford also touched on the government’s broader healthcare plan, part of its latest provincial budget, which includes $60 billion to build and upgrade over 50 hospitals across Ontario — the largest hospital investment in Canadian history. The budget also earmarks $2.1 billion to connect all Ontarians with a family doctor or primary care team under a new Primary Care Action Plan led by Dr. Jane Philpott.
“We’ve never cut anything in government. We continue to invest — in hospitals, schools, roads, and bridges,” Ford said, noting that the government is focused on protecting Ontario’s economy while delivering key social services.
The Premier also reinforced Ontario’s strong economic position, boasting over $70 billion in new investments since his government took office, and reaffirmed a commitment to never raise taxes. “We do it through economic growth,” he said.
As the province continues to invest in rural healthcare and infrastructure, Premier Ford concluded with a pledge: “We’re protecting Ontario. And we’ll continue to invest in communities like Campbellford — because that’s how we build a stronger future for everyone.”
