The TinCaps will host their third Stitch ’n Pitch event next month, but this time they’re encouraging needle artists to contribute to a breast cancer awareness scarf that is more than a mile long and growing – and will be displayed in Fort WayneFORT WAYNE – For the second time this week, a developer is targeting older residents.
Senior Homes of Fort Wayne wants to build a nearly $4 million apartment complex in southwest Fort Wayne for people 55 and older. Rents would range from $650 to $875 a month.
Bridgewater Senior Apartments would entail 46 single-story dwellings with private entrances.
One- and two-bedrooms would span 750 to 850 square feet. Two-bedroom units would have a one-car attached garage. Bridgewater Senior Apartments would sit on the south side of Illinois Road and just north of the Bridgewater subdivision.
The Allen County Plan Commission approved the development Thursday, but the county commissioners will have to agree to a rezoning request.
Earlier this week, Performance Property Group asked the Fort Wayne Plan Commission to approve a $9.2 million residence for retirees. Waters Park Villas, a 50-unit subdivision on Wallen Road east of Coldwater Road, awaits a decision Monday. Two- and three-bedroom homes would cost $170,000 to $190,000 and span up to 1,550 square feet, not including two-car garages.
U.S. census figures show that 12 percent of Allen County’s population is 65 years or older. That percentage is expected to climb as baby boomers continue to age, which is why senior-living options will be at the top of many builders’ project lists, said Tony Hicks, a Senior Homes partner.
“Definitely,” he said. “The way the economy is, many seniors feel uncertain about buying a house and are choosing to lease. The demand is there and isn’t going anywhere.”
Hicks said six units are already leased “and we haven’t even broke ground yet.”
A perk offered to Bridgewater residents is a senior citizen club membership with Parkview Health.
“We’re working with Parkview and (shuttles) will be provided for those who need it,” Hicks said. “There are a lot of discounts that come with the club membership.”
Hicks wants to begin building on the first 30 units this spring, and anticipates wrapping up construction in the summer. Walking areas and an “open front porch” design will allow residents to mingle freely. The development will consist of six buildings.
