Government marks completion of Ridgewood Addiction Services redevelopment

Release

Department of Health

February 09, 2026

SAINT JOHN (GNB) — The redevelopment of Ridgewood Addiction Services in Saint John is now complete.

“This project is about ensuring people seeking addictions and mental health care can do so in safe and modern spaces that support recovery,” said Justice Minister Robert McKee, who is also minister responsible for addictions and mental health services. “The upgrades at Ridgewood will strengthen the quality of care being provided to patients as they work toward their recovery goals.”

The first phase of the three-year, $3.8-million project expanded the concurrent rehabilitation program to 16 beds, from 12, to meet growing demand. The second phase focused on renovations to the withdrawal management unit. The third and final phase involved a redevelopment of the treatment building, creating new spaces for group and individual therapy, assessments, group rooms and a teaching kitchen.

Ridgewood Addiction Services admits an average of 100 patients each year. Clients typically stay in treatment for at least five weeks, with some programs lasting up to 90 days.

The redevelopment was funded through an agreement involving Horizon Health Network, the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation and the provincial government.

“Horizon is committed to ensuring New Brunswickers have access to addiction and mental health care,” said Ashley Calvert, the health authority’s interim vice-president of community. “This final phase, which was the most extensive, will see a significant impact on the overall quality of care provided. By renovating the spaces using an evidence-based and trauma-informed approach, we’re able to better meet the needs of our clients and help them realize and achieve their recovery goals.”

“This project was a true partnership, and one that our team and board of directors were deeply passionate about supporting,” said Shannon Hunter, president and CEO of the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation. “Thanks to the generosity and trust of our donors, this important work was possible. By investing in spaces that support addiction and mental health care, we’re helping some of the most vulnerable patients and members of our community receive care in an environment that is safe, respectful and focused on recovery. We are so pleased to see this vision come to life and to know it will have a meaningful impact on patient care and healing.”

The government continues to invest in a range of initiatives to strengthen addictions and mental health services across the province, including new models of care and innovative approaches to education and awareness, such as Horizon Health Network’s online video series featuring subject matter experts.

The Ridgewood site renovation supports the health plan’s goal of ensuring New Brunswickers are effectively supported through their recovery from substance use.

Mental health and addictions were one of six priority areas outlined in the provincial health plan, Caring for New Brunswick: Putting People at the Heart of Healthcare.

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