The provincial government has issued a Request for Proposals for the replacement of the Waterford Hospital.

Three teams of companies that are competing for a contract to design, build, finance and maintain the new facility have received the RFP outlining requirements for the project.

Submissions are due in early 2020.

The 102-bed mental health and addictions facility will be an extension of the Health Sciences Centre, and will include a parking garage with space for at least 1000 vehicles.

The RFP includes financing and maintenance of the hospital over a 30-year contract.

The successful bidder will also be required to develop an apprenticeship training program for local apprentices and a plan to assist with hiring tradeswomen on the construction site.