If you travel down Falconer Street, you can't help but notice all the construction under way on the Lutheran Social Services campus. Hultquist Place Assisted Living expansion and the Smartment Building are near completion.
''We are excited to bring the Smartment concept to this community,'' said Tom Holt, president and CEO for Lutheran Social Services. ''And with the expansion of our assisted living program, we can offer even more choices for independent living. In addition, these two projects have injected over $8.5 million into our local economy.''
The Hultquist Place addition is scheduled to open in early October. ''We can see the grand entrance taking shape,'' Holt adds. ''It will feel like a high-end hotel with heated sidewalks and drop-off area. We've designed serpentine walkways and have chosen classic lighting features to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our living rooms are spectacular. They feature a fire place, big-screen TV and comfortable seating. Residents will love the expansive views of our beautiful campus.''
In addition, a new convenient beauty shop was created. Along with the amenities in the current Hultquist Place facility, there will be a variety of new activity areas, computer stations, a library, and a game room. Other features will include garden walkways, a gazebo, and a courtyard with an outdoor grill. ''Front porch living is back,'' said Kathy Lynch, administrator for Hultquist Place. ''We want every opportunity for our residents to be active and mobile. Then they are healthier, they eat and sleep better and they are happier.''
The 14-unit Smartment building is on track to open in October. Most of the outdoor construction is complete including the siding, porches, patios and the entry way. ''We should have a model apartment ready for tours in mid-October,'' said Sharon Hamilton, vice president of Lutheran Senior Housing. ''We'll be able to demonstrate how our technology works. It's so easy; residents can use it without knowing about computers. The built-in system is non-intrusive and respects resident privacy and the wellness module uses a touch screen. It's very exciting.''
There is no entry fee for the Smartment Building and all utilities are included in the monthly rent, except for the phone. The apartments will be pet friendly and tobacco/smoke free. Other features include appliances, central air conditioning, walk-in showers, a washer and dryer unit in each apartment and beautiful outdoor spaces. The ''front porch'' views from every apartment are beautiful.
Funds for these projects were made available through the HEAL NY (healthcare efficiency and affordability law) grants. The intent is to create a partnership with the Federal Government, the State and the health care community to create more affordable options for people as they age, lower the costs of long term care and eliminate duplication of services.
''Ultimately, expanding our services allows us to offer the right care, in the right place, at the right cost,'' Holt said.
To learn more about these programs or to request an application call 664-4905 or log onto www.lutheran-jamestown.org.
