Can you briefly describe the components of the project?
The Woods – A GreatLife Community is a new and unique senior living community located on an 11.57-acre wooded site with serene surroundings.
The 139,909 square foot community provides a home-like feel through its connected ranch design with every resident having a private front entry. The two-building development includes a 72-unit independent living community with 66 heated underground parking stalls and a 48-unit assisted living residence. The community areas are also accessible from every unit and include hair salons, dining rooms, community rooms, fitness rooms and more.
What was the timeline for the project? Were all the deadlines met/exceeded?
Stevens Construction Corp. had a 13-month timeline to complete the project. The schedule was altered during construction to include a phased-occupancy plan. The alteration allowed Stevens to complete the assisted living residence first to serve as a business and training center, as well as early leasing. Stevens was able to meet the original schedule and deliver the 48-unit assisted living residence three months before the independent living community was completed.
Was there any significant events that impacted this project or informed its design?
The Woods—A GreatLife Community was originally designed as a three-story senior living community. After witnessing his grandfather wave to family members from a third-floor balcony during the height of the pandemic, the owner realized traditional, multi-story senior living residences made access to the outdoors, visiting with family, and building strong community a challenge. He wanted to create a more home-like community with private front-door access to the outdoors, as well as direct indoor access to shared community amenities from each unit.
Who made up the project team?
As with any successful project, a devoted team of strong communicators is key to achieving the project’s goals. The Woods – A Greatlife Community had a committed team of passionate collaborators, problem solvers and visionaries. The vision began with Greg Petrauski, principal and managing member of Infinity Development; the vision was brought to life by architects from RINKA+; and Stevens made the vision tangible.
Did you come across any unexpected challenges? How did you meet them?
The large lot for the project was wetland and exceptionally saturated. Before construction could begin, Stevens needed to perform significant soil stabilization efforts. Soil conditioning included blending cement and fly ash into the soil within the building footprint to increase its stability prior to the footing and foundation work. Stevens worked closely with Spire Engineering and the geotechnical engineers throughout the soil stabilization process to ensure success—from beginning to end.
Ensuring community engagement and satisfaction during the project.
The project’s land was surrounded by three public schools and a public trail in the woods adjacent to the project. Given the importance of student safety during construction, Stevens created a one-way traffic plan where all manpower and deliveries entered the project site from the West. The company diligently communicated and collaborated with the city to ensure they were comfortable with the safety plan and Stevens’ commitment to the public’s safety.
1134 N 9th Street, Suite 250 • Milwaukee, WI 53233
stevensconstruction.com • (414) 828-5100
