DRC approves Alexian addition

Alexian Village received approval last week for a new five-story Health and Rehabilitation Center to be located on its campus, but that's basically all about the new facility that is approved.

The town's Design Review Commission OK'ed the concept of the new facility - as well as its height, which has been a major concern for neighboring residents. But Alexian representatives must still present detailed information about all other aspects of the building and surrounding grounds.

"I think we're stuck with the number of floors ... based on the zoning," said Planning Commissioner Vance Travis. "I don't think we can wrap our arms around how to slice off a floor of this building, but I think it still deserves merit how we can reduce the impact on all these neighbors."

Alexian is due back at the DRC's next regularly scheduled meeting May 22 at 6 p.m. to present particulars related to lighting, parking, overhangs and eaves, the retention pond, enclosure of the on-site generator, the embankment at the main entry, the incorporation of field stone and other exterior aesthetics to help reduce the visual "massing of the building" and landscaping to help shield it from neighbors' views.

"We've got a team ready to focus on these items starting tonight," said attorney Ross Schram, representing Alexian. "If [these things] change anything else that's already approved, we would bring back the modifications. We want to move as quickly as possible."

The new facility, which will replace one that's been in use since the 1970s, is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2013 if construction starts as planned this summer, and will feature private rooms for those needing advanced care. Phase two involves then transforming the existing center into new apartments, which should take about a year after phase one, according to Alexian Vice President of Senior Ministries John Turongian.

A third phase calls for minor renovations to Alexian Inn, in keeping with the historic nature of the building, which should take six to eight months to complete, said representatives.

Save for phase one, all the work was unanimously approved by DRC members during last week's meeting. Jeremy Rardin cast the sole dissenting vote related to the Health and Rehabilitation Center based on the lack of related details, he said.

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