The new Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan is a step closer to reality.

This morning, the provincial government announced an additional $15.5 million in funding and laid out the design plans for the $230-million institution.

That brings the government’s contribution to more than $215 million.

As well, the projected cost is down $30 million from a year ago.

The province says savings were found by finding more efficient ways to provide services to patients and at the same time create a better experience for patients and their families.

Teams of patients, doctors, and staff held brainstorming sessions to come up with the design concept.

Construction on the hospital is scheduled to start in 2014, and the facility is expected to open in 2016.