Trochu has announced plans to have a seniors facility that will focus on all levels of care from independent to long term care. This image shows an example of what the structure may look like. ECA Review/ Submitted
Modelled after Sundre’s senior’s facility, the town of Trochu has announced a new seniors facility catering to all levels of care.
The amenities and design were developed with the input of a Seniors Advisory Committee composed of community members.
Although it is in the early stages, the community can expect large rooms and underground parking, a chapel, greenhouse, guest room, and more.
Thirty-two million dollars is budgeted to build the facility.
“There has been two demand studies completed, one by Covenant Health and one by the Trochu Housing Corporation. Both identified a significant need. AHS has also identified a shortage of beds.”
The building will have a total of 80 units: 40 for supported living, 16 lodges and 24 life leases.
All levels of service from independent to SL4D will be included.
Although it is not identified, these units can be utilized for long term care as well.
Initial predictions say it will bring 30 new jobs to the community.
Space and concept plan allows for expansion of the facility to easily allow for another 24 life lease and 40 more supportive living in the future.
The town owns 80 acres of undeveloped property on its northern boundary.
They are currently completing an Area Structure Plan and have identified a 12 acre parcel which is located at the highest point, overlooking the surrounding area.
“The community has been promised for a number of years, over 10, that major upgrades or a new building to replace the existing facility would happen, but nothing has materialized so they approached the town to take the lead, so the Trochu Housing Corporation was formed,” explained Trochu Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Carl Peterson.
Now that the concept plan has been completed, the corporation will be meeting with possible stakeholders looking for support and participation as there is a major shortage of modern seniors facilities throughout the region.
The CAO expects the facility to come into fruition within five years.
Three years will be used to develop the plan and locate funding while the latter two years will be for the actual construction.
“We are currently on schedule,” he said.
Terri Huxley
ECA Review
