Shaping the Future

January 26, 2018

in Organization News

It is no secret that lifestyle preferences and demands change over time. Studies show today’s seniors and Baby Boomers want greater options, not only when it comes to residential living and amenities, but also regarding the need for more flexible continuum of care alternatives. Reports show 70 percent of adults 65 and older will eventually require care assistance. According to the Bipartisan Policy Center, Senior Health and Housing Report, May 2016.

To answer the aspirations of seniors and ensure their future needs are secure, Lifespace Communities has initiated substantial redevelopment campaigns totaling approximately $450 million. This purposeful plan includes expanded levels of living and care options, as well as new amenities in common spaces and adding residential living apartments.

“Lifespace Communities is committed to reinvesting in communities to enhance the resident experience and advance the organization’s mission,” says Brian Devlin, director of design, construction and redevelopment for Lifespace Communities. “We take a disciplined approach. We want to do what’s best for communities not only in the short term, but also what’s best for communities and the organization 10 or 20 years from now. Master planning is an integral part of this process to continually improve the quality of life for residents.”

The redevelopment approach by Lifespace Communities includes the following key goals:

  • Enhance services and amenities for current residents
  • Attract new residents and remain competitive in markets
  • Expand the continuum of living options
  • Be considerate of future developments on the campus
  • Strengthen the community’s position in its respective area
  • Achieve growth and serve more seniors, if possible
  • Be fiscally prudent and support the organization’s strong financial foundation

The planning process includes diligent study of each community’s area to analyze demand, competition, and planning and zoning feasibilities. In 2017, Lifespace Communities commenced construction on significant expansions and renovations at three communities, with two more expected to break ground this year. (See column for details). These commitments reflect the ongoing promise by Lifespace to offer residents more choices, more customized health services and greater support for families of residents. Also in 2017, capital improvements were completed at all 12 Lifespace communities. Some of the more common improvements include apartment renovations, new kitchen equipment, and various other infrastructure upgrades.

“The resident experience is a key factor in decisions we make,” Devlin adds. “Whether it is the behind-the-scenes upgrades to HVAC systems or roofing to large-scale additions of new buildings or amenities, we take pride in improving each one of our campuses.”

Lifespace Communities evaluates all aspects of every community to identify opportunities for residential living and care improvements. The progress made in 2017 and the commitments in the years to come are just the beginning. The future of Lifespace Communities involves a never-ending exploration to advance the welfare and care of seniors, and a goal to ensure the continuum of care at all communities meets resident needs.

Friendship Village of South Hills

Investment: $40 million

Commencement: Mid-2017

Project Scope: New assisted living and memory care building with various supporting amenities and wellness services.

Completion: Early 2019

Oak Trace

Investment: $150 million

Commencement: Mid-2017

Phase I Project Scope: Modern replacement of the health center, including new assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing residences, a state-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy center, dialysis clinic and other support spaces.

Phase I Completion: Early 2019

Phase II Project Scope: Significant residential living expansion with new apartment homes, modern common areas, new dining venues and other social and support spaces. Included in the project will be renovations to the existing residential living commons and development of a new park-like courtyard in the heart of the campus.

Phase II Completion: 2021

Abbey Delray

Investment: $38 million

Commencement: Early 2018

Project Scope: New assisted living and memory care building with supporting amenities and wellness services; expanded and renovated residential living commons amenities including dining, an auditorium and fitness center.

Completion: Mid-2019

Village on the Green

Investment: $56 million

Planned Commencement: 2018

Project Scope: Modern replacement of the health center, including new assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing residences, a state-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy center, and other amenities and support spaces. Additionally, new townhomes will be added along with a comprehensive renovation and expansion of the residential living clubhouse, including dining venues, fitness center, spa and other social amenities.

Planned Completion: Early 2020

Friendship Village of Bloomington

Investment: $100 million

Planned Commencement: 2018

Project Scope: Modern replacement of the health center, including new assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing residences, and other amenities and support spaces. The project also includes a new residential living building with various new apartment homes and amenities.

Planned Completion: 2021

The Waterford

Market feasibility studies have been completed and the Lifespace Board of Directors has approved a redevelopment for The Waterford. The final scope and details of the project are currently being finalized and will be shared at a later date.

(In the photo: A rendering of the Oak Trace expansion project.)


<< Back to News