United Methodist Homes last week celebrated the completion of its $11 million overhaul of the senior apartments at Wesley Heights.
The project renovated and increased the size of dining rooms and 90 apartment units, and added new activity rooms and a covered front entrance to the apartment building.
The renovations also made Wesley Heights entirely handicapped-accessible, in part by adding power-assisted doors throughout.
The project was originally launched by donations — from about 800 individuals, churches and foundations — and was completed thanks to a $10 million Department of Housing and Urban Development grant.
Owned and operated by United Methodist Homes, Wesley Heights consists of 90 rental cottages and 90 apartments. Wesley Heights shares the 39 acre Wesley Village campus on Long Hill Avenue in Shelton with Crosby Commons, an assisted living residence, and Bishop Wicke Health Center, which provides rehabilitation, nursing care and hospice care.
Robert Congdon, vice president of public relations at United Methodist Homes, said the project took eight years to complete.
Ron Bucci, administrator at Wesley Heights said the ​“transformation” complements the ​“Planetree Continuing Care” philosophy at the facility, which promotes supporting relationships with residents, their families and caregivers.
#8220;This transformation has allowed us shape and enhance our services around the community,” Bucci said.
HUD representative Julie Fagan said that the elderly residents are ​“our country’s greatest generation,” noting the age group includes veterans from World War II and the economic boom of the 1950s.
Fagan said during the planning stage of the project, the residents were asked about their needs, which were incorporated into the design.
“This is an investment in a vision,” she said. ​“This was planned with and for them from the beginning.”
Bob Clapp, chief operating officer of United Methodist Homes, said the renovation started as a small project and just kept growing with help along the way.
“All of this started as a small remodeling contract,” he said. ​“There is a lot to be proud of today.”
Shelton Mayor Mark Laurietti who attended the dedication ceremony Friday said UMH has always been a good corporate citizen and good neighbors.
“It is nice to have a complex that adds stability to any neighborhood,” he said.