HUGHESVILLE - As they plunged shovels into the earth to ceremonially begin the process of construction on the area's newest assisted living community, developers Sterlyn and Carol May expressed how they were all too familiar with the growing need for such facilities.
The couple, who operate Fernwood Manor, a personal care facility in Lake Township in Luzerne County, broke ground Wednesday for their newest venture - Wolf Run Village and Assisted Living Center, an 80-bed, $6 million facility to be built along Route 220 in Wolf Township in eastern Lycoming County.
"We've been in the business for 25 years," Sterlyn said at the site, which was covered by a thin layer of ice from the morning snow.
Joining them were their children and grandchildren, officials with the project manager and general contractor T-Ross Brothers Construction Inc. of Montandon, township supervisors and staff, the Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce and state Rep. Garth D. Everett, R-Muncy Township.
The Mays have been in the business of helping those who need assistance in their daily living for 25 years. With family in the region, they said, they bought the property and began to see their dream become a reality about four years ago, beginning with land development, zoning and permitting processes with the supervisors.
At the ceremony, the couple indicated construction would begin in the spring, with possible completion in the fall. That fell in line with the schedule for the builders, according to Jim Spangenberg, project manager with T-Ross.
The building has been designed to be completed with four wings or pods and a canopy drop-off and pick-up area. "We look forward to providing our residents with a friendly and caring atmosphere," the Mays said, believing comfort was among the highest of priorities.
The project also means jobs. The Mays anticipate hiring 20 full-time and 16 part-time workers. One of the amenities for residents includes a personal beauty boutique.
For residents, the estimated room costs are from $1,900 to $2,500 per month, he said.
"That estimated price is comparable to other facilities across the region," he said.
Residents are free to come and go as they like, see whatever visitors they want and can get financial assistance through insurance carriers.
Jason Fink, vice president of the chamber of commerce, welcomed the Mays and their project.
Fink said eastern Lycoming County is considered a growth region. Pennsylvania is among the highest states in terms of elderly population, he added.
Nancie J. English, development and retention coordinator at the chamber, said she considers it the kind of business the county's aging population requires.
