A Chicago-based company plans to build a unique 150-unit supportive living complex in downtown Champaign by spring 2012.
The new Eden Supportive Living Complex is expected to cost around $15.5 million to develop and will include a nine-story waterfall, movie theater, music studio, restaurant and a “cyber lounge,” equipped with computers, among other amenities. Everything will be designed for people with disabilities.
The building is to be constructed on the site of Robeson Realty offices, 222 N. State St., and will overlook West Side Park.
Margaret Seggebruch, director of marketing at Prairie Winds of Urbana, a local assisted living community, is optimistic about the new complex.
“I think what they are doing is great,” she said. “We only accept people over 65 years old here, so Eden is doing us a favor by taking everybody under 65 and over 22. About once a week, I get a call about someone under 65, and it kills me to have to deny them.”
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According to the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, supportive living is a service that provides “housing with services.” The department says the program’s aim is to emphasize health and wellness for people who would otherwise need nursing facility care.
Typical services of a supportive living facility include personal care, medication management, meals, 24-hour emergency response, security, housekeeping and laundry.
The cost of living at Eden is expected to be about $2,700 per month, with $600 for rent and the remainder for these assisted living services.
Residents can cover the assisted services portion with their own resources. They can use private insurance, or they can get help from the state’s Medicaid program.
Joey Maiorana, freshman in business, believes the Eden complex is a great addition to the city.
“I don’t see many nursing home type(s) of places suited for younger people,” he said. “This new complex looks great for even college kids. My younger cousin is disabled, and this looks like a great home for him in the future after he graduates.”
Construction of the complex is slated to begin this summer. Eden Supportive Living already has facilities based in Chicago and North Aurora.
Right now, Eden Supportive Living is accepting preliminary applications for potential future residents. Applications will be taken after July 2011, according to Eden’s website.
If you are interested in more information on the Eden Supportive Complex, please visit www.edensupportiveliving.com or call the company at 630-929-3333.
