The Royal Victoria Hospital buildings are set to undergo a major transformation into student residences with an estimated cost of $845 million, primarily for essential structural work on the heritage structures. A recent feasibility study conducted by CDPQ Infra, a subsidiary of La Caisse known for high-profile projects like the REM, revealed the extensive repairs needed to convert the six historic buildings into 1,150 student housing units. According to the study, three of the buildings are in a state of advanced degradation, requiring significant intervention.
The estimated cost per bed for a student residence is $735,000, with approximately 80% of the total expenses allocated towards necessary structural repairs and reconstruction. CDPQ Infra emphasized that the comprehensive report was the result of detailed technical assessments and consultations with various stakeholders, affirming the technical feasibility of the transformation while highlighting the critical heritage interventions essential for the site’s development.
The study, conducted over 18 months by a diverse team of architects, engineers, urban planners, and other experts, was commissioned by the Quebec government to assess the potential conversion of the Royal Victoria Hospital buildings into student residences.
