A Village in The Making | Winchester Star

February 07, 2012

ROUND HILL - The initial phase of construction for the $110 million Village at Orchard Ridge senior living project is on schedule, with the first group of apartments and cottages set to open in March 2013.

Since its groundbreaking in May, the work has had virtually no weather setbacks, and 31 of the 51 cottages being constructed in the initial phase are now under roof. Contractor Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc. is heading up the project.

"We had the best month of January anyone can remember," said Orchard Ridge director Jim Midolo. "Virtually no snow or ice, and even if we get some, they can work inside the units now that the roofs are on."

The facility, located on Northwestern Pike (U.S. 50) two miles west of Winchester Medical Center, will offer three levels of accommodations and care - independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing. It will cover 132 rolling acres and feature a community-centered design with a chapel set within a "village green concept." Phase I will showcase 127 apartments and 51 cottages - including 18 memory-support/assisted-living residences, 10 of which will offer skilled nursing services.

Courtney Malengo, director of public relations for National Lutheran Community & Services - which runs Orchard Ridge - said the majority of the people who are reserving spots at the facility are from Virginia. "About 38 percent of the residents are from the Winchester/Frederick area," said Malengo, "while 62 percent are from surrounding counties, Northern Virginia or out of state."

In the September/October 2011 edition of AARP The Magazine, the publication chose Winchester and the surrounding area as one of the best bargains for retirees. So perhaps the timing of the project is right on.

Apartments will have 12 floor plans, with one- and two-bedroom options. The cottages have six floor plans, with two-bedroom, two-bath options. They will be built according to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) specifications.

The complex will feature a fitness facility, library, lounge and scheduled local transportation - including trips to medical appointments. Future phases could result in a neighborhood totaling 650 apartments and cottage homes with an ultimate build out of 402,000 square feet. When finished, the complex is expected to employ 150 people.

Source: Sarah L. Greenhalgh | Winchester Star

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