Sault Ste. Marie’s Sault Area Hospital will begin expanding its South Parking Lot on June 1, 2026, a move aimed at easing parking crunches for patients, visitors, and staff at the 750 Great Northern Road facility. The hospital announced the project on May 24, with construction expected to wrap up by August 31.
During the work, a section of the Ring Road next to the South Parking Lot will be closed off. The hospital says clear signs and detour routes will guide drivers and pedestrians around the site. Tree and brush clearing is set to finish by June 19, at which point crews will reassess whether any access changes can be made safely for the next phase.
The hospital runs four paid lots, including one at the Emergency Department entrance. Parking currently costs $7.50 per exit, with revenues going toward maintenance and supporting patient care programs across the hospital.
The expansion comes as President and CEO Ila Watson prepares to retire in early summer 2026 after a 37-year public-sector career. She has led the hospital since 2021. More details are available on the hospital’s website.
