October’s total of $8.2 billion is nearly 15 percent lower than September’s near-record performance, but more closely reflects normal monthly construction activity.

The redevelopment project will involve the construction of a new, larger hospital on the property behind the existing facility in Grimsby.

In Ontario, the  site plan approval process takes an average of 249 days, almost 100 days more than the average in other OECD countries, says the report.

Witmer, who has served on the board since 2012, will remain in her leadership role through the end of 2021.

The funding was announced in the Ontario government’s 2020 budget and can be used toward the renewal and modernization of campus facilities, including building systems upgrades, roof repairs, and mechanical and electrical system upgrades.