Oak Trace Senior Living-Downers Grove completes $112 million renovation and expansion project
“The most common word I hear when people walk into the community is ‘wow,’” said Dan Harrington.
The ‘Wow’ factor
That word was heard countless times last week when Oak Trace in Downers Grove held its ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event celebrated the culmination of the senior living community’s $112 million multiphase expansion and renovation project.
Over two days, Oak Trace welcomed residents, prospective residents, area dignitaries, referral sources, corporate leadership, and other local professionals to tour the completion of the final phase of the project, a new, five-story, independent living apartment building.
“This is among the largest projects in the Downers Grove area and an unprecedented jewel in the community,” Harrington said.
The executive director of Oak Trace added, “In addition to ‘wow,’ additional exclamations heard by visitors last week included ‘five-star hotel’ and ‘upscale cruise.’ The architecture, design, stunning artwork, and amenities are truly incomparable.”
The new building features 140 new luxury independent living apartments, a state-of-the-art fitness and aquatic center, a performing arts center, multiple restaurant-style dining venues, a salon and spa, an upscale style coffee shop, and more.
The final touch will be integrating landscaping that reflects the beauty and character of the interiors. It will include picturesque entryways, tree-lined boulevards, tree orchards with different colors and textures, fire pits, courtyards, distinctive gardens and more.
The first phase of the renovation and expansion project, completed in 2019, was the creation of Oak Trace’s new Health and Wellness Center, offering assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation and skilled nursing. It has been named among the Best Nursing Homes by U.S. News & World Report for 2022-23.
The second phase, completed in 2022, features enhanced shared spaces in the existing independent living building. This includes the Oak Room, a formal restaurant-style dining room with floor-to-ceiling glassed-in wine racks; the Lounge, a casual gathering space offering cocktails and small-plate items; the beautiful, newly furnished library; the outfitted art studio, a bright and welcoming lobby, and more.
“As a Life Plan community (formerly known as a continuing care retirement community or CCRC) we offer all levels of care,” Harrington said. “Ideally, people move into independent living, and make great friends, stay engaged and active, and enjoy the wonderful amenities. If their health needs change, they can receive support and care, without leaving Oak Trace, their beautiful home that they love.”
He concluded, “We are so excited about this entire project and looking toward the beautiful future with our elegant, vibrant senior living community.”
Oak Trace Senior Living
Oak Trace senior living community in Downers Grove is set on more than 40 acres of landscaped grounds featuring gardens, walking paths, ponds and abundant green space. Oak Trace has private independent living apartments, as well as assisted living, memory care, skilled care and rehabilitation. The Life Care Community offers guaranteed lifelong care with predictable costs. Oak Trace is owned by Lifespace, a not-for-profit organization with more than 45 years of experience in senior living. To learn more about Oak Trace, visit www.OakTraceSeniorLiving.com.