Kelly MartinNew long-range plan begins with town square addition to Messiah Village
MECHANICSBURG, PA (July 2, 2014) – Messiah Lifeways®, the faith-based non-profit that provides a network of services for adults aged
55 and better, plans to expand its continuing care retirement community, Messiah Lifeways at Messiah Village, in Mechanicsburg to meet the “changing needs of future generations and their families.”
In the first phase of “Project Envision,” a mission-driven strategic plan that looks ahead to 2035, Messiah Lifeways plans to build Village Square, an innovative town village concept featuring 80 spacious apartment homes with underground parking and numerous lifestyle amenities including a wellness and enrichment center, spa, and bistro open both to residents and the public aged “55 and better.”
The first phase of Project Envision will also include the addition of 26 new large apartments in the Enhanced Living/personal care neighborhoods and the addition of two new nursing neighborhoods that will yield a total of 64 highly sought-after private rooms. This expansion project is estimated at $73 million. Plans will be formally presented to the Upper Allen Township planning commission on July 28.
“Groundbreaking is planned for the fall of 2015 with completion of this first phase about a year later,” said Curt Stutzman, CEO of Messiah Lifeways. “We hope to welcome the first new residents to this zestful community in early 2017.”
“We believe that there are many ways to embrace the journey of growing older. Project Envision and all its strategic components are meant to change the conversation – and offer inspired, purposeful choices for many lifestyles. Whether you are aging in place in the community, visiting our wellness and enrichment programs, caring for a loved one, or dreaming of an active, independent lifestyle, Messiah Lifeways can meet your needs,” said Stutzman.
Additionally, Village Square will provide new modern facilities for the Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning® and Messiah Lifeways Wellness. Founded in 2005, the Pathways Institute provides personal development, cultural excursions and service opportunities for older adults in the Capital Region. The wellness center features physical fitness and aquatics facilities for area residents.
Founded in 1896, Messiah Lifeways originally operated a home for widows and orphans in the city of Harrisburg, first on Bailey Street and later on Paxton Street. A growing resident population prompted the development of Messiah Village in Mechanicsburg in 1978 with residential cottages, private
apartments, personal care residences for those who need assistance with daily activities, and skilled nursing residences.
Today, Messiah Lifeways continues to expand its mission to serve adults aged 55 and better through robust community services including adult day care centers, life coaching, home care, rehab, and a grassroots age-in-place membership program. Hundreds of the region’s 55 and better population connect with Messiah Lifeways’ programs and services. The organization served nearly 2,400 persons this year.
Stutzman said Village Square is at the hub of a 20-year plan to meet the changing needs of the future generations of residents and strengthen Messiah Lifeways’ sustainability for the future.
“Village Square aims to be more than just a beautiful home on a picturesque campus. It will be designed to blend into the existing residences and feature lively common spaces, convenient services and amenities that will promote a close-knit community for our residents to embrace life,” said Stutzman. “It will enable people to live the lifestyle they desire and pursue a life with purpose.”
Note: An architectural rendering of the proposed Village Square is available upon request by contacting Karin Bisbee at 717.591.7201 or by emailing kbisbee@messiahlifeways.org.
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About Messiah Lifeways
Messiah Lifeways offers a network of opportunities for adults 55 and better in South Central Pennsylvania. Recognizing that there are many ways to experience life, Messiah Lifeways offers life coaching, enrichment opportunities, community support services and resident communities. Messiah Lifeways, based in Mechanicsburg, is a non-profit sponsored by the Brethren in Christ Church. For more information, visit www.MessiahLifeways.org.
