Look what they’re planning to build at Albert and Brock (3 photos)

Architect David Ellis has prepared early design renderings of District of Sault Ste. Marie Social Services Administration Board's (DSSMSSAB) soon-to-be-consolidated offices at 540 Albert St. E.

The renderings, shown at DSSMSSAB's most recent board meeting, propose a four-storey structure near the existing Ontario Works building, which will be demolished.

It will consolidate three current DSSMSSAB offices: 390 Bay St., 540 Albert East and 180 Brock St., using the site of the former Barton and Kiteley Funeral Home and an adjacent triplex.

The new headquarters will feature "a lobby that will allow for a collaborated space for clients from all service areas to be served from one location," DSSMSSAB board members were told in a written report.

"Operationally, the DSSMSSAB will no longer need to rent two separate office spaces and staff will no longer need to travel from one location to another to meet. The architect is working closely with senior management and staff to develop floor plan layouts."

"At present time, our customers, many whom are mutual between our service delivery areas, must attend different locations to receive service for different items (ie. Ontario Works in one building, housing in another). A shared delivery service would allow for all umbrellas of our agency to work under one roof, and create a one-stop shop for all services offered."

David Ellis Architect has determined that renovating and building an addition to the existing building would cost more than a new building.

DSSMSSAB expects construction will take two years.