Dignitaries presented the new Magnolia at 9th Street Senior Apartments with certificates of Achievements. (Left to Right) Anthony Sandoval, Western Senior Housing President; Heather Rouhana, Representative from Congressmember Gary Miller; Aaron Mandel, Western Senior Housing Vice President and Graham Espley-Jones, Western Community Housing President
(San Bernardino, CA) The City of San Bernardino, Western Community Housing, Inc. and Meta Housing, Corp. recently held the grand opening for Magnolia at 9th a 119-unit affordable, luxury, senior housing community now open for seniors.
“This is a great example of what private public partnerships can accomplish,” said San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis. “It will be a great place for seniors. They will have a wonderful opportunity to improve their lifestyle.”
The Magnolia at 9th Senior Apartments is located in San Bernardino at 181 9th Street near the corner of 9th and Lugo Street. It has been open since January, providing seniors age 62 and older with an upscale but affordable living option. The apartments include 100 one-bedroom units, and 19 two bedrooms.
The project started out as a partnership between the San Bernardino Redevelopment Agency, Meta Housing, and Western Community Housing. With $7.1 million in redevelopment funding that would allow it to transform a formerly blighted 40-year-old apartment complex into an attractive, safe and modern living place, Meta Housing and Western Community Housing began planning this project in 2009.
Prior to Magnolia at 9th Street, the city had used redevelopment funds to bring about renewal to many other blighted houses and apartments in many other neighborhoods.
In February of 2012 as The Magnolia at 9th was assembling additional funding, state legislation eliminated redevelopment agencies. The City of San Bernardino had to convince the State of California that because Magnolia at 9th was already in progress, the redevelopment funds committed to this project should stay in San Bernardino.
First Ward Council Member Virginia Marquez is a supporter of and advocate for Magnolia at 9th since its beginning.
Support from the project came from San Bernardino City officials including Councilmember Marquez and Mayor Davis. (Left to Right) Mayor Carey Davis, San Bernardino City Mayor; Virginia Marquez, 15th Ward City Counsel Member of San Bernardino and Graham Espley-Jones, Western Community Housing President.
“Partnerships such as the one the city had with Meta Housing are critical for keeping our city an attractive place to live,” Council Member Marquez said. “This project was very near and dear to me, because it was the last one before the redevelopment agency folded up. It was very touch-and-go for a while, but we persevered and now have this wonderful place for our seniors to live.”
As a leader in the senior housing industry, Western Seniors Housing, Inc., which manages Magnolia at 9th, is committed to raising the level of quality senior housing in the industry through thoughtful management programs geared toward maintaining a high level of satisfaction for the owners, operators and residents of senior apartment communities.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer beautiful, quality, affordable housing designed for seniors age 62+, with many amenities,” said Anthony Sandoval, President of Western Seniors Housing, about the comforts and tranquil living conditions that the community has to offer.
The Magnolia at 9th Senior Apartments boasts a brand new 2,500 square foot community room where residents may enjoy relaxation and companionship amongst themselves or their guests.
Judi Penman, President and Chief Executive Officer at San Bernardino Chamber of Commerce leads Mayor Davis, Councilmember Marquez and Aaron Mandel from developer Meta Housing Corp and community members in the Magnolia at 9th Street Senior Housing Official Ribbon Cutting.
“The completion of this project also helps the City of San Bernardino deliver more quality affordable senior housing units. San Bernardino is approximately 1,000 units short and these 119 units help meet that state requirement,” said former Mayor Patrick Morris.
The $21 million project also comes with exceptional programs for seniors and a sustainable design using “green building” principles designed to exceed existing energy efficiency by more than one-third. The City of San Bernardino is a partner in the project contributing $7.1 million in redevelopment housing funds.
(Left to Right) Virgina Marquez, 15th Ward City Counsel Member of San Bernardino and Anthony Sandoval, Western Senior Housing President discuss the apartments beauty in the court yard.
“We also partner with an organization like EngAGE, to provide programs for seniors that help them maintain a healthier and happier lifestyle. Providing seniors with opportunities to stay connected and active is essential,” said Meta Housing Corp. Vice President Aaron Mandel.
For example, in the computer center, seniors who have never used a computer before learn how to keep in-touch and interact with their children and grandkids.
“We are thrilled to be able to deliver this beautiful senior housing project to San Bernardino,” said Mandel. “About 38 seniors have moved is and are enjoying their apartments. Rents range from $494 to $807 a month depending on income and availability.”
“Overall, above and beyond the technology, amenities and structure itself, seniors will find a great place they can come to call home and their families can rest assured that their parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles are enjoying their senior years in comfort and good company,” said Mandel.
“We are very excited to bring another great senior apartment community to San Bernardino and the region,” said Mandel. “We look forward to delivering more quality, affordable multi-family housing projects in partnerships with the county and cities in the next few years.”
(Left to Right) Judi Penman, President and Chief Executive Officer at San Bernardino Chamber of Commerce and Rikke Van Johnson, 6th Ward City Counsel Member of San Bernardino.
The developer for this project is Meta Housing Corporation and Western Community Housing Corporation. The general contractor is Optimus Construction and the architect is Ken Stockton. Western Seniors Housing provides property management and EngAge delivers senior programs.
For more information or to reserve a spot call the Magnolia at 9th Street Senior Apartments at (909) 388.1203.
The Magnolia At 9th Street Senior Apartments Ready For New Residents
“Ten of the senior apartments are two-bedroom units of 777 square feet; the remaining 109 one-bedroom apartments are 542 square feet. The Magnolia at 9th Street offers apartments that are very spacious and complete with upscale appointments.”(San Bernardino, CA) After four years of planning and one year of extensive rehabilitative work, the City of San Bernardino, Meta Housing Corp. and property manager – Western Seniors Housing announces that the Magnolia at 9th is now accepting applications for residency.
Offering a truly different level of comfort and quality living for seniors, The Magnolia at 9th is located in San Bernardino near the corner of 9th and Lugo Street. Having turned what was once a blighted apartment complex into 119 upscale, spacious, affordable apartments for adults’ age 62 and older, the community opened for occupancy in January 2014.
Following the great success of The Magnolia at Highland, The Magnolia at 9th is the second luxury affordable senior housing complex provided to San Bernardino residents by Meta Housing and Western Seniors Housing.
“The beautiful 119-unit complex includes 11 one- and two-story buildings on a 3.2-acre lot located at 181 East 9th Street,” said Meta Housing Corp. Vice President, Aaron Mandel. “The Magnolia at 9th offers apartments that are very spacious and complete with upscale appointments.”
“The beautiful 119-unit complex includes 11 one- and two-story buildings on a 3.2-acre lot located at 181 East 9th Street,” said Meta Meta Housing Corp. Vice President, Aaron Mandel.
As a leader in the senior housing industry, Western Seniors Housing, Inc., which manages Magnolia at 9th, is committed to raising the level of quality senior housing in the industry through thoughtful management programs geared toward maintaining a high level of satisfaction for the owners, operators and residents of senior apartment communities.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer beautiful, accessible, affordable luxury housing designed for senior citizens, with many amenities,” said Anthony Sandoval, President of Western Seniors Housing, about what the comforts and tranquil living conditions that the community has to offer seniors.
The Magnolia at 9th senior complex boasts a brand new 2,500 square foot community room where residents may enjoy relaxation and companionship amongst themselves or their guests.
The $21 million project also comes with exceptional programs for seniors, and a sustainable design using “green building” principles designed to exceed existing energy efficiency by more than one-third. The City of San Bernardino is a partner in the project contributing $7 million in housing funds.
Some of the improvements made to the complex include all-new energy-efficient windows, metal entrance doors to each unit including weather stripping, reroofing of all buildings, painting of all interior and exterior surfaces, installation of new cabinets and appliances, window treatments, new countertops, water heaters, updated air conditioning and heating units, updated, carports, cable TV and building wiring.
Security features include new nine foot wrought iron perimeter fencing, gated access to the property, security gates at each building, extensive building and site lighting, and video cameras throughout the property.
The senior apartments are also close to medical centers, parks, shopping and dining and many of the services that seniors regularly need and enjoy.
The new wrought iron perimeter fencing and block walls with lush landscaping, including Magnolia trees, make The Magnolia 9th Street an attractive and appealing oasis of well-being and comfort. The elevator will provide residents greater accessibility and mobility throughout the complex. The entrance will be locked at all times, with access restricted to tenants with keys.
The manager’s unit will face the entrance, allowing the manager to conveniently observe the building’s entrance/exit.
“This senior housing community represents several years of dedication and hard work,” said San Bernardino City Councilmember Virginia Marquez. “The City of San Bernardino remains committed to the revitalization of the City Center for our residents, particularly seniors.”
For outdoor lovers, there is an outdoor patio area with shade trees, tranquil fountains in a park-like setting and barbecue grills.
In addition to the age requirement, those interested in becoming a resident must meet the maximum allowable income, which for a single person household means no more than $25,685 a year. A two person household can earn up to $29,370 a year, with a family of three earning as much as $33,055 a year.
The completion of this project also helps the City of San Bernardino deliver more quality affordable senior housing units. San Bernardino is approximately 1,000 units short and these 119 units help meet that state requirement.
The $21 million project also comes with exceptional programs for seniors and a sustainable design using “green building” principles designed to exceed existing energy efficiency by more than one-third. The City of San Bernardino is a partner in the project contributing $7 million in housing funds. Ten units are reserved for seniors and veterans who may be high-utilizers of health services, and seniors in danger of losing their homes are also eligible for special placements depending on income and availability.
Enjoy the new swimming pool, including new bathrooms and showers, a spa, cabana and sauna, and multiple areas for relaxed seating; all which enhance the exterior of the community.
For outdoor lovers, there is an outdoor patio area with shade trees, tranquil fountains in a park-like setting, barbecue grills, swimming pool, including new bathrooms and showers, a spa, cabana and sauna, and multiple areas for relaxed seating; all which enhance the exterior of the community.
For residents who prefer to participate in activities indoors, there is a computer center, fitness center and also a clubhouse offering resident programs through EngAGE, a nonprofit organization that helps turn affordable senior apartment communities into vibrant centers of learning, wellness and creativity by redefining and transforming the perception and process of aging.
“By partnering with an organization like EngAGE, we are supplying seniors with activities that help them maintain a healthier and happier lifestyle. Providing them with opportunities to stay connected and active is essential,” said Mandel.
New exercise room.
For example, in the computer lab, seniors who have never used a computer before can learn how to keep in-touch and interact with their children and grandkids.
“We are thrilled to be able to deliver this beautiful senior housing project to San Bernardino,” said Mandel. “We are accepting now applications for occupancy and rents range from $381 to $796 a month depending on income and availability.”
Seniors are moving in now.
Mandel added that Meta Housing Corp. is also very excited and hopeful about the possibility to develop other similar projects in the city and thus provide even more seniors with affordable luxurious accommodations.
As such, Meta Housing Corp. formalized commitments with the City of San Bernardino and its lenders to remain affordable for the next 55 years, thus ensuring that that today’s and future seniors will be very well taken care of.
“Overall, above and beyond the technology, amenities and structure itself, seniors will find a restful place they can come to call home and their families can rest assured that their parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles are enjoying their senior years in comfort and good company,” said Mandel.
“We are very excited to bring another great senior apartment complex to San Bernardino and the region,” said Mandel. “We look forward to delivering more quality, affordable multi-family housing projects in partnerships with the county and cities in the next few years.”
Offering a truly different level of comfort and quality living for seniors, The Magnolia at 9th is located in San Bernardino near the corner of 9th and Lugo Street. Having turned what was once a blighted apartment complex into 119 upscale, spacious, affordable apartments for adults’ age 62 and older, the community is ready to move in!
The developer for this project is Meta Housing Corporation. The general contractor is Optimus Construction and the architect is Ken Stockton. Western Seniors Housing provides property management and Engage delivers senior citizen fun and programs.
For more information or to reserve a spot call the Magnolia at 9th Street Senior Apartments at 909-726-0322.
Enjoy a slide show of the Magnolia at 9th Street
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WSR-PR-301.4 Magnolia at 9thFor more information callCarl M. Dameron @ 909-534-9500
For more Information call
Carl Dameron @ (909) 534-9500
The Magnolia at 9th Senior Apartment
OFFICIAL GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY
Tuesday, March 26th at Noon
187 9th Street in San Bernardino
The Magnolia at 9th Senior Apartments is a major repositioning/rehabilitation of 11 buildings on a 3.32 acre lot in the City of San Bernardino.
This comprehensive community transformation will create 119 one and two-bedroom rental apartments for low-income seniors, with exceptional amenities, programming, and a sustainable design utilizing cutting-edge “green building” principles to exceed existing energy efficiency by more than 30%.
Ten units will be reserved for seniors who may be high-utilizers of emergency and inpatient mental services, and are homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless.
• New kitchen cabinets, fixtures, windows and flooring
• New 2,500 square foot community room
• New perimeter fencing and walls
• New pool and cabaña area
• New elevator
• New and lush landscaping
MAGNOLIA AT 9TH DEVELOPMENT TEAM
• Developer: Meta Housing Corporation
• Architect: Ken Stockton •
• General Contractor: Optimus
• Property Manager: Western Seniors Housing
• Construction Lender: Bank of America Merrill Lynch
• Tax Credit Equity Investor: Bank of America Merrill Lynch
• Community Outreach: Dameron Communications
• Social Services: Engage Inc.
• Built with San Bernardino City Redevelopment Funds and Affordable Housing Funds
Staff of Magnolia at Highland gather in community room ready to assist residents. (Maintenance Technician Phillip Holmes, Leasing Consultant Carol Cook, Resident Manager Daysherri Terry, Assistant Manager Gamille Nash and Leasing Consultant Julio Martinez) Photo by Chris Sloan.
Maintenance Technician Phillip Holmes cutting keys for residents ready to move in the Magnolia at Highland. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Assistant Manager Gamille Nash guiding prospective resident through the application process. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Resident Manager Daysherri Terry answering questions from Linda Quinn, one of Magnolia at Highland’s new residents. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Magnolia at Highland’s first resident, Connie Moore, taking time to discuss her day with leasing consultant Julio Martinez. Photo by Chris Sloan
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The Magnolia at Highland, San Bernardino’s newest senior living apartment community for those 62 or better, fuses luxury living with a management team and style that is reflective of the diverse community it serves.
Conveniently located at 2196 Medical Center Dr. in San Bernardino (at the corner of Highland and Medical Center Drive), the Magnolia at Highland is managed by Western Seniors Housing Inc., a management company that strives to create an environment for seniors where the quality of life is as important as life itself.
The resident manager of this 80-unit community, which features spacious one and two bedroom apartments, is Daysherri Terry, a native of San Bernardino. Terry brings more than 11years of senior property management experience.
“I think property management is in my blood,” said Terry. “I followed in my mother’s footsteps, who worked for Cal American managing properties when I was a kid. I truly love property management for one simple reason – compassion. This trait is even more essential when working with seniors. The little things mean so much and consistency is key. I love being able to help my seniors with making their day better in every way.”
Terry, joined Western Seniors Housing this past summer, during the Magnolia at Highland’s development stage. She immediately assembled a management team that possessed the skills and experience she needed to make this senior community a pleasant and comfortable home for area seniors.
“All members of my team are from the local area,” said Terry. “Each person has a background that is amazing. They take their job very serious and are dedicated to making this a wonderful place for our residents. I am very proud of them all. They are very thorough.”
Boasting an impressive 70 percent occupancy since opening this past Christmas, Terry gives much of the credit to team member Julio Martinez. Another native of San Bernardino, as leasing consultant Martinez brings 15 years of property management experience to the team, playing a key role in getting the property move-in ready.
“We all live in the area, which really makes a difference in understanding what the needs of the community are and what they have been lacking and wanting for so long” says Martinez. “We care about our residents, who may have been our neighbors. As a result, we work hard to offer them the best service available.”
Charged with making the Magnolia at Highlands comfortable and more like home is maintenance technician Phil Holmes. A resident of Fontana, Holmes has six years of property management experience, and understands the importance of his duties when it comes to senior luxury living, and that beautiful buildings and landscaping are only part of the job.
“My desire is to make the community a home for the residents, one without worries or care. The smallest inconvenience such as a bad light bulb is important to seniors. Even a defective doorbell is important. With seniors, customer service and standing behind what you say is crucial,” said Holmes.
Rounding out the team is Assistant Manager Gamille Nash. Born and raised in San Bernardino, she is new to property management, making the transition after working for 10 years as a office manager. What she enjoys most about her new position is the interaction with seniors.
“Being able to help seniors is really a wonderful feeling. They have so much knowledge and history to share,” said Nash. “The residents here love their new home and will be able to participate in social and educational programs provided on site. This is really an upscale environment right here in San Bernardino, complete with a dedicated staff to help them with all their daily needs at an affordable price.”
The Magnolia at Highland offers apartments that are very spacious and complete with upscale appointments such as solid wood cabinetry, granite counter-tops, built in computer desk, central heat and air conditioning, modern appliances, with walk in showers in some units.
The beautiful grounds feature a landscaped courtyard with a tranquil fountain and outdoor fireplace in a resort like outdoor patio area with shade trees, barbecue grills, a large swimming pool, spa and multiple areas for relaxed seating.
The amenities don’t end there. For those residents who prefer to participate in activities indoors, there is a computer center, fitness center, billiards room and also a clubhouse offering resident programs through the nonprofit organization EngAGE.
EngAGE transforms aging and the way people think about aging by turning affordable senior apartment communities into vibrant centers of learning, wellness and creativity.
The Magnolia at Highland is an affordable housing apartment community with 25 one bedrooms still available at $690. Applicants must meet income qualifications.
To schedule a personal tour or to learn more about The Magnolia at Highland Senior Apartment community, contact Western Seniors Housing, Inc., at (909) 473-1000.
About Western Seniors Housing
Western Seniors Housing, Inc. is a management company that strives to create an environment for seniors where the quality of life is as important as life itself. As a leader in the senior housing industry, Western Seniors Housing is committed to raising the level of quality senior housing in the industry through thoughtful management programs geared towards maintaining a high level of satisfaction for the owners, operators and residents of senior apartment communities.
The primary objectives of Western Seniors Housings sponsored programs and activities are to increase occupancy, enhance resident satisfaction and maintain properties in top condition.
A true alternative to in-house resources, Western Seniors Housing offers a high degree of practical experience, know-how and empathy with seniors and their needs. For more info please read the total core two home ab workout machine review.
City of San Bernardino Mayor, Pat Morris, congratulates Western Seniors Housing President Graham Espley-Jones and Vice President and Senior Project Manager of Meta Housing Corporation Aaron Mandel, as he presents them with a certificate of recognition from the city. Photo by Chris Sloan
Senior Assemblymember Fran Givens and Meta Housing Corporation’s Aaron Mandel discuss the addition of Magnolia at Highland as an affordable living opportunity for senior residents in San Bernardino. Photo by Chris Sloan
Mayor Pat Morris and Magnolia at Highland resident Eugene Cook are surrounded by local officials, community members, residents and staff, as they lead the ribbon cutting during the grand opening ceremony. Photo by Chris Sloan
Anthony Sandoval, President of Western Seniors Housing and Linda Howard of Linda Howard Designs, inspect a Magnolia at Highland’s completed apartment. Photo by Chris Sloan
Resident Manager DJ Terry describes the many amenities available for residents to use in the on-site library and billiard/tv room. Photo by Chris Sloan
(San Bernardino, CA) The Magnolia at Highland, San Bernardino’s newest affordable, luxury senior living community for those age 62 or better, opened its doors to the community with their grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.
Located at 2196 Medical Center Dr. in San Bernardino, The Magnolia at Highland kicked off four days of activities, highlighted by guest speakers and presentations from the Mayor and other officials, residents, supporters, refreshments and tours.
Managed by Western Seniors Housing, a leader in the senior apartment management industry, the new senior community has turned what was once a blighted automotive site into 80 upscale, spacious, affordable apartments for seniors.
Designed from the ground up with seniors in mind, the Magnolia at Highland cultivates a philosophy of aging in place, gracefully, paying attention to every detail to provide a nurturing and comfortable environment for residents.
Conveniently located near freeways, public transportation, shopping, dining, and parks, The Magnolia at Highland began moving in residents this past December 2011, offering residents spacious apartments complete with central heat and air conditioning, modern appliances, granite counter-tops, with walk in showers in some apartments.
The beautiful grounds feature a landscaped courtyard with a fountain and outdoor fireplace in a resort like outdoor patio area with shade trees, tranquil fountains, barbecue grills, a large swimming pool, spa and multiple areas for relaxed seating.
There are still 28 of the 80 apartments available, and it is anticipated that the building will be fully occupied soon. In addition to the age requirement, those interested in becoming a resident at the new Magnolia at Highland senior living community will need to meet the maximum allowable income qualifications.
To schedule an appointment or to learn more information about The Magnolia at Highland senior living community contact Western Seniors Housing, Inc., at (909) 473-1000.
The Magnolia at Highland is San Bernardino’s newest luxury senior apartment complex, for adults age 62 and better. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Magnolia at Highland’s resident manager, DJ Terry, points out the amenities found in the on-site billiard room and library. Photo by Chris Sloan
Magnolia at Highland’s community room features a flat screen television and fireplace. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Adjacent to the community room, Magnolia at Highland residents can enjoy an outdoor sitting area, complete with a fountain, bar-b-que area and comfortable seating in front of an outdoor fireplace. Photo by Chris Sloan.
A sparkling swimming pool and spa will help Magnolia at Highland residents relax during the hot summer months. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Active seniors stay in shape with modern, high-tech exercise equipment located in the on-site fitness center. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Ample sitting areas and artistic designs are found throughout the complex. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Spacious living rooms feature an abundance of natural lighting. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Inviting and comfortable, units feature one and two bedroom apartments at an affordable price. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Dining area with built-in wooden desk, ready for computer installation or storage. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Kitchens come complete with full size refrigerator, electric stove and oven, dishwasher and wood cabinets. Photo by Chris Sloan.
(San Bernardino, CA) The Magnolia at Highland, San Bernardino’s newest affordable, luxury senior apartment community for those ages 62 or better, opens its doors to the public with a grand opening weekend, starting with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2012 at 11:30 a.m.
Held at The Magnolia at Highland apartments located at 2196 Medical Center Dr. in San Bernardino (at the corner of Highland and Medical Center Drive), the event kicks off four days of activities, highlighted by guest speakers and presentations from local officials, residents, supporters, refreshments and personal tours.
“We are extremely pleased to share this beautiful and luxurious new apartment community with prospective new residents and are pleased to have such a strong presence in the City of San Bernardino,” said Kim Pollack, Vice President of Western Seniors Housing.
She also added that approximately half the apartments are already occupied and the remaining apartments are renting quickly. Pollack encourages those interested in applying to become a resident to take advantage of the application fee waiver this weekend and make plans to visit The Magnolia at Highland as soon as possible.
Western Seniors Housing, Inc., a management company that strives to create an environment for seniors where the quality of life is as important as life itself, manages the Magnolia at Highland.
“As a leader in the senior housing industry, Western Seniors Housing is committed to raising the level of quality senior housing in the industry through thoughtful management programs geared towards maintaining a high level of satisfaction for the residents, operators and owners of senior apartment communities,” said Pollack.
The new senior community has turned what was once a blighted automotive site into 80 upscale, spacious, affordable apartments for seniors conveniently located near freeways, public transportation, shopping, dining and Community Hospital of San Bernardino.
“While it is important for seniors to have safe and affordable housing, it’s also important to live in a beautiful place with a high quality of life,” said Aaron Mandel, Vice President and senior project manager at Meta Housing Corporation. “That is why the Magnolia at Highland is designed and built reminiscent of a luxurious resort community.”
Apartments are very spacious complete with upscale appointments such as solid wood cabinetry, granite counter-tops, built in computer desk, central heat and air conditioning, modern appliances, with walk in showers in some units.
The beautiful grounds feature a landscaped courtyard with a tranquil fountain and outdoor fireplace in a resort like outdoor patio area with shade trees, barbecue grills, a large swimming pool, spa and multiple areas for relaxed seating.
The amenities don’t end there. For those residents who prefer to participate in activities indoors, there is a computer center, fitness center, billiards room and also a clubhouse offering resident programs through the nonprofit organization EngAGE.
EngAGE transforms aging and the way people think about aging by turning affordable senior apartment communities into vibrant centers of learning, wellness and creativity.
“This development shows what Meta Housing Corporation can do when we work together with good government focused on the needs of our most treasured resource – seniors,” said Mandel.
Carrying a total development cost of $19 million, Meta Housing partnered with Western Community Housing, the San Bernardino Economic Development Agency, Optimus Construction, Inc., Wells Fargo Bank, Chase and the California Community Reinvestment Corporation, to design and build The Magnolia at Highland for seniors in San Bernardino.
“This is the culmination of several years of hard work,” said Carey Jenkins, San Bernardino Economic Development Agency’s Housing and Community Development Director. He added, “It is exciting to deliver a project that has an immediate benefit to our senior residents and the city.”
The San Bernardino Housing and Community Development Agency subsidy for the project is $7 million from its low to moderate income housing funds. That investment is what allows some rents to be as low at $357 a month. These funds are for housing only and cannot be used for the City’s general fund.
In addition to the age requirement, those interested in becoming a resident at the new Magnolia at Highland senior living community will need to meet the maximum allowable income for potential residents.
What this means, is that a single person household can earn up to a total of $25,795 a year. A two person household can earn up to $29,480 a year, with a family of three earning as much as $33,165 a year.
“Please join us for our grand opening weekend starting Thursday January 26th at 2:00 pm at The Magnolia at Highland” said Pollack.
To schedule a personal tour or to learn more bout The Magnolia at Highland senior apartment community contact Western Seniors Housing, Inc., at (909) 473-1000.
About Western Seniors Housing
Western Seniors Housing, Inc. is a management company that strives to create an environment for seniors where the quality of life is as important as life itself. As a leader in the senior housing industry, Western Seniors Housing is committed to raising the level of quality senior housing in the industry through thoughtful management programs geared towards maintaining a high level of satisfaction for the owners, operators and residents of senior apartment communities.
The primary objectives of Western Seniors Housings sponsored programs and activities are to increase occupancy, enhance resident satisfaction and maintain properties in top condition.
A true alternative to in-house resources, Western Seniors Housing offers a high degree of practical experience, know-how and empathy with seniors and their needs.
Magnolia at Highland, Western Seniors Housing newest luxury senior living complex, built for those age 62 and better. Photo by Michael Downer
Walk-in showers are designed to make life easy and living senior friendly at the Magnolia at Highland. Photo by Michael Downer
Residents of the new Magnolia at Highland senior living community will enjoy outdoor activities on a spacious patio, complete with bar-b-que area and outdoor fireplace. Photo by Michael Downer
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) As Baby Boomers grow older, the one thing that has become clear is their desire to stay active and independent. With that in mind, creating housing that will feature innovative ideas for senior-friendly living has increased.
Researchers report in The Gerontologist, that there is a greater sense of well-being and independence in daily activities derived from living in a more senior-friendly accessible home. It also found that housing quality plays a major role in the psychological security of older people living independently within a community.
Consideration must be given in all details, including the style of floor lamps, bathroom fixtures or armchairs. Also of great importance is the interior design, as it plays a key role that many tend to overlook.
For instance, navigating a long hallway can be a real challenge for a person with vision impairments. An example could be the use of neutral colors for both the wall and handrails. It could prove extremely difficult to differentiate between the two for person with a problem in depth perception. Contrasting colors, in the form of a darker-colored wallpaper with a cream-colored handrail (or vice versa) would make navigation much easier.
Noting that even the color of the carpet in a multi-level building must be a consideration, Kim Pollack, senior vice president of Western Seniors Housing, Inc., a leader in the senior apartment management industry, explains how this attention to detail makes a huge difference in the lives of seniors living in their senior-living apartments.
“When completing our new senior-living community in San Bernardino, the Magnolia at Highland, we worked with an interior designer who specializes in senior communities. She assisted us in developing a plan, which offers our residents a leisurely lifestyle in a home-like surrounding,” said Pollack. “While there must be a balance between what is user-friendly and what is attractive, the overall goal is to provide our residents with an opportunity to make friends, have fun, keep active and enjoy life.”
Pollack points out that as the population ages, a lack of senior-friendly or accessible housing could become an increasing problem. Having the ability to use standard bathtubs and other items has proven too difficult for some seniors. As a result it has caused some select developers in the industry to rethink their designs to attract the Boomers.
In a study of accessible housing design published in the Journal of Housing and Society, researchers point out that the growing elderly population means more adaptable, accessible, and safe family housing is needed in all parts of the country.
The study states that this approach would permit people to age in place, because houses would have features such as accessible entrances and ramps, grab bars and walk-in showers in bathrooms, and a single-level design.
Baby Boomers, who over the years have provided a new outlook on staying active, often wish to continue this trend into their senior years. By staying healthy and physically fit, they increase their ability to maintain an independent lifestyle.
“The Magnolia at Highland has made every effort to include these aspects in our design. In addition, we haven’t forgotten that Boomers also want amenities like outdoor fireplaces, walking trails, swimming pools, bar-b-que areas and a fitness center. They want to remain active even as they are getting older,” said Pollack.
Along with these outdoor activities as part of that active lifestyle, Pollack said Western Seniors Housing has incorporated several indoor activities as well.
“At the Magnolia at Highland we also have a computer center, billiards room and a clubhouse offering resident programs through the nonprofit organization EngAGE.,” said Pollack.
Founded in 1999 as More Than Shelter For Seniors, EngAGE transforms aging and the way people think about aging by turning affordable senior apartment communities into vibrant centers of learning, wellness and creativity.
Taking the whole-person approach to creative and healthy aging, EngAGE provides arts, wellness, lifelong learning, community building and intergenerational programs to thousands of seniors living in affordable senior apartment communities in Southern California.
“By partnering with an organization like EngAGE, we are supplying seniors with activities that help them maintain a healthier and happier lifestyle,” said Pollack.
The Magnolia at Highland is located in San Bernardino on the southwest corner of Highland and Medical Center Drive. As part of an ongoing redevelopment program, Western Seniors Housing has turned an automotive site into 80 upscale, spacious, affordable apartments for adults age 62 and older. The community is scheduled for occupancy in December 2011.
To schedule an appointment or to learn more information about The Magnolia at Highland senior living community contact Western Seniors Housing, Inc., at (909) 473-1000.
