St. Paul Homes in West Salem Township began the largest expansion in its 136-year history on Wednesday when ground was ceremonially broken for a $30 million retirement community.

The project includes a new 192-bed health center, renovation of the existing nursing home and expansion of services.

Terry Wheeler, president of St. Paul Homes' board, said, "This project is truly a vision shared by all who work at and are associated with St. Paul Homes. An inspired work force -- working from the heart -- produces the best results. An inspired work force unshackled by fears of competition is allowed to take chances, suggest new ways to bring about healthy change.''

Work will take three years with the health center providing skilled and intermediate nursing care, expanded Alzheimer's and dementia-care services and the introduction of a dementia assisted-living program.

The first phase of the project -- construction of the new health center next to the existing nursing home -- is set for completion in November 2004. The two centers will share dietary, purchasing, housekeeping, maintenance, volunteer and spiritual services. Residents will have easy access to rehabilitation services, a fitness center, the medical clinic, chapel and a bistro for snacks and light meals with visitors.

At the heart of the new construction is more privacy for residents with a homier environment and easier access to meals, activities, staff, lounge and outdoor areas. Service corridors will decrease the disruption caused by delivery of meals, laundry, housekeeping equipment and supplies.

Renovation of the existing health center will provide 80 studio and one-bedroom apartments for individuals who want to live independently. Services such as meals, housekeeping, transportation and activities will be available to those residents. If their needs increase, personal care services, including medication management, will be provided by personal care attendants. The renovation is slated to be completed in 2005.

Expansion of existing services includes new outpatient therapy facilities for what St. Paul's is call a Senior FITness program.

The building contract has been awarded to Mistick Inc. of Pittsburgh.

"This is by far the most ambitious undertaking St.Paul Homes has ever done,'' said G. Bryan Oros, executive director.

"We continue to face change, and St. Paul Homes is committed to modify our vision for the comfort and convenience of our residents and families. With this new facility we will be able to expand the services we offer and we will be providing them in a home-like environment.''

Historically related to the United Church of Christ, St. Paul Homes was founded in 1867 and includes Cottage Colony, which offers cottages and apartments for independent living; The Ridgewood, which offers assisted living apartments; and the health center which offers skilled and intermediate nursing care, rehabilitation and Alzheimer's care.

On the Internet: www.stpaulhomes.org

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