[A] large proposed senior housing project that would be built next to the Berlin Mall is under Act 250 review. Developers say there is “strong demand” for the 98-unit project.
Dousevicz Inc., a Vermont-based developer, is partnering with Heidenberg Properties Group, the owner of the Berlin Mall, to build the senior housing project, called Spruce Place, according to a statement from the developers.
Brad Dousevicz, vice president of development at the Dousevicz, said the company will build a four-story building with 60,000 square feet. The rental units would be a mix of independent, assisted living and memory care.
According to the developers, the independent living units are for seniors who want help with housekeeping, meal preparation and transportation. There will also be assisted living units where residents could receive medication and health care services.
The memory housing is designed for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other memory impairment, according to the developers. It features specialized programming for memory impairments and trained staff.
Dousevicz said the company has done a study regarding senior housing need around Berlin, Barre and Montpelier.
“We did an analysis on the existing population, the age of that existing population, and the existing housing stock available to that population. After that analysis was run, we quickly learned that there was a strong demand in this area,” he said.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 24 percent of Vermonters will be 65 years of age or older in 2030, up from 13 percent in 2006.
Dousevicz said the company has not determined rates for future residents. Rent costs will be driven by the construction expenses, which haven’t been finalized.
Dana Hadley, town administrator of Berlin, said there is no similar senior housing like the Spruce Place in the town. The project could be a draw for central Vermont or the area around Berlin.
“It would give an opportunity for people who live in this area or have lived in the area for many, many years, that are finding themselves in a situation that they need either a more assisted living experience or greater health experience, and not have to go out of the area to find it,” Hadley said.
Ken Simon, vice president of real estate for the Heidenberg, said the location is ideal for the project. It is near I-89 and adjacent to retail sites, including Walmart, JCPenney and Kohl’s. The exercise facility and Central Vermont Medical Center are also within walking distance.
Dousevicz said the company hopes to have the Act 250 review finished this summer and to begin construction this fall, if possible. Construction will likely take 16 months to 18 months.
He also said Dousevicz has constructed more than 500 units of senior housing throughout Vermont, and his family is directly involved in the day-to-day operations of the facilities.
“If people are looking for respectable housing that they can put their parents into. They can feel confident that it’s run by Vermonters for Vermonters,” Dousevicz said.
