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Exciting New Development in Howard: The Rennes Group Assisted Living Campus
The village of Howard is looking forward to a significant change in its senior care landscape. The Rennes Group's proposed assisted living campus is set to transform the region, offering a blend of independent living apartments and memory care, making it a vital resource for local families.
Rising Demand for Senior Living Spaces
With a projected increase in Wisconsin's senior population, the demand for assisted living facilities is skyrocketing. The Forward Analytics report highlights that the state will need 33,000 more assisted living beds by 2030 as the population aged 75 and older is predicted to surge by 41% in the next decade.
The new campus in Howard will initially feature 80 apartment-style residential units for independent living and 24 beds dedicated to assisted living, along with specialized memory care. This development not only addresses an urgent need for housing but is also designed to foster community connections with its planned town square.
A Focus on Community Integration
President of the Rennes Group, Nikki Schingick, emphasizes that a unique aspect of this campus is its location, chosen not only for space but to enhance accessibility for residents. Proximity to businesses and educational establishments like Bay Port High School aims to make the facility more integrated within the community, providing a central hub for various services.
“We want to create a place where our residents can thrive and stay connected to the community,” Schingick said, signifying a commitment not just to care, but to communal engagement.
Job Creation and Economic Growth
As the facility prepares for construction, which is slated to begin in fall 2026, it promises to create about 70 jobs for residential apartments and an additional 20 for memory care services. This job creation is particularly important as Howard and surrounding areas see fluctuating employment landscapes, often impacted by facility closures and other economic shifts.
Challenges and Community Concerns
While the proposed site offers a promising expansion of essential services for seniors, it does come with community concerns. The development will replace 11 acres of agricultural land from Sunny Hill Farm, which has played a role in the area's economy. Village Board Chair Burt McIntyre acknowledges the delicate balance between economic development and preserving rural charm, stressing that while these developments may alter the landscape, they fulfill a growing need for senior services.
A Vision for the Future
Looking beyond the first phase of development, the Rennes Group envisions an extensive campus that will include more independent apartments, assisted living suites, a playground, a daycare, and a skilled nursing facility. This approach allows residents to “age in place,” meaning they can transition smoothly to more intensive care without moving to a different facility.
“This is a plan that evolves with the needs of our residents,” Schingick shared optimistically. Such foresight is crucial in an era where elder care demands are markedly increasing.
Conclusion: A Community-Centric Approach to Senior Care
The vision for the Rennes Group’s assisted living campus in Howard marks a pivotal moment in addressing the needs of an aging population. As surrounding areas like Pittsfield and Pulaski look forward to the developments, this initiative not only provides crucial services but aims to foster a sense of community and belonging for seniors.
This focus on creating a supportive, integrated living environment illustrates a growing trend in elder care: prioritizing not just the physical needs of seniors but their emotional and social well-being. As the planned campus moves closer to reality, it remains an exciting development to watch for everyone in the community.
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