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More than ever, senior living expansion and community updates are desperately needed. The world's population is aging, and the number of seniors is projected to double by 2050. Senior living construction is critical in providing older adults with housing that meets their unique needs, including accessibility, safety, and socialization.

What was once considered an unattainable dream, Jerome Home and Arbor Rose expressed a clear vision for the redevelopment of their community that would meet the evolving needs of their residents and staff while enhancing the surrounding area. Their vision included modernizing the facilities with Memory Care units, increasing accessibility, and creating a welcoming atmosphere that fosters socialization and community engagement.

By staying committed to the owner’s vision, we were able to transform their wishful thinking into a reality that can be enjoyed by the residents, staff, and community at large.                                                                    

The Ribbon Cutting for the Expansion Brought Together the Team and Community at Large

Communication, Communication, and More Communication

Effective and committed teamwork was established right from the beginning of the project during the kickoff coordination meetings with the design team and owner.

Consistent communication and collaboration with all parties helps to ensure that we are bringing the owner’s vision to life, especially as we were not involved in preconstruction. As this was an occupied campus, communication was critical to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents. We updated the community on a weekly basis about any upcoming work and any changes in regards to their egress. Superintendent Ray Pagliarini was often praised by the owner for keeping the staff and residents safe and informed.

We also took steps to include trade partners as early as possible, ensuring that all parties have a clear understanding of the project requirements, timelines, and budget. They can also provide input on design plans, material selection, and construction methods.

Minimizing Cost Escalations

Combining an occupied site, surrounding residential area, and already limited parking can spell disaster for an unprepared team. On top that, add in Covid protocols and an unpredictable supply chain: a coordinated, aligned team is an absolute prerequisite for success.

As a trusted partner with the owner, we understand the importance of transparency and collaboration throughout the construction process. One way we maintained this relationship was by utilizing our good will to help manage material escalation costs. Even as we continue to put distance between us and the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, supply chains have yet to recover and costs have yet to stabilize, especially as inflation remains persistent. By cultivating a true team mentality, our trade partners and suppliers were motivated to work together to keep costs down and the schedule on track, knowing that their efforts would be recognized and appreciated.

To address any unexpected cost increases, we leveraged our buyout savings. Not only did this help cover the escalation costs, but it also demonstrated to the owner that we value their partnership and are committed to delivering the best possible experience for them.

The New Addition to the Jerome Home and Arbor Rose Features Multiple Spaces for Residents to Mingle

Our Winning Dragon Boat Team, Featuring Participants from Bechtel Frank Erickson Architects

This Expansion Adds Twenty Memory Care Apartments to the Community

The New Wellness Pavilion Includes a New Outpatient Rehabilitation Gym for Physical and Occupational Therapy

Maximizing Good Vibes

At the start of the project, the team encountered a significant challenge related to parking. The original parking facilities were already insufficient, and the residential area around the site offered no street parking options. To address this issue, the team made it a priority to establish an additional parking lot that would accommodate staff, visitors, residents, and trade partners. This solution not only alleviated the parking shortage but also demonstrated the team's commitment to minimizing the construction's impact on the community.

Regrettably, our work caused a power outage for some neighbors, which posed a temporary obstacle in our relationship with them. To mend the rapport, Superintendent Ray took the initiative to speak with them. During one such conversation, he learned about an elderly couple's struggle with a badly deteriorated front walkway, which made it difficult for the husband, who used a walker and cane, to reach their car for dialysis appointments.

Moved by their predicament, Ray took action and arranged for our concrete trade partner to remove the old walkway and replace it with a new concrete path during the next concrete pour. This intervention made a significant difference for the couple, who expressed their gratitude with a heartfelt thank-you note to the team.

Keeping Schedule and Dragon Boats on Track

A prime example of successful coordination was demonstrated during the generator tie-in process, which required the involvement of multiple parties. The transition needed to be efficient to minimize any potential downtime for the residents who relied on it. Fortunately, our electric trade partners recognized the significance of the switch and ensured that all employees were present on site that day. Additionally, the fire marshal and health department were present to oversee the operation and ensure a seamless transition. Thanks to the concerted efforts of all parties involved, the generator tie-in was a resounding success, and the residents remained unimpacted.

Effective team collaboration goes beyond formal team meetings and often extends to personal relationships. Project Manager Michaela Catallozzi exemplifies this by fostering strong professional connections with the architect and client, and inviting them and their spouses to the annual Dragon Boat race she organizes.

This approach reflects C.E. Floyd’s commitment to delivering a client experience that values both collaboration and personal connections as much as professionalism and hard work. By nurturing personal relationships with our clients and partners, we not only build trust and rapport but also enhance our ability to collaborate and deliver exceptional results.

Meeting a Growing Demand

The importance of senior living homes cannot be overstated, especially as the aging population continues to grow in Connecticut and across the United States. As more seniors look for safe and enriching communities to spend their golden years, senior living homes like Jerome Home and Arbor Rose are stepping up to meet the demand.

During the grand opening New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart noted that these facilities are not only meeting a critical need for seniors but also creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents and staff alike. This sense of community is invaluable, as it helps seniors feel more connected and engaged with the world around them.