OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A $50 million senior care facility could soon be built near one of Marion County’s busiest corridors, and just steps from the Countryside Farms neighborhood. The project, approved unanimously by the county’s Planning and Zoning Board on May 28, promises more options for elder care with minimal impact to surrounding homes.

The board voted 6-0 to recommend approval of a special use permit requested by C.L.D. Properties, LLC. Aston Health would operate the skilled nursing and memory care facility, with architectural plans submitted by Architectural Concepts.

What this means for nearby residents:

Low impact on traffic and noise

The one-story facility is designed to be quiet and low-traffic, according to representatives. “These types of facilities are very low traffic, very low noise in terms of impact to the community,” said Ken Tobin of Architectural Concepts. It will sit 60 to 100 feet from the Countryside Farms property line, with separate courtyards for memory care and skilled nursing areas.

Access to local senior care

The facility will include about 141 beds, with a 22-bed memory care unit and private/semi-private rooms. “We’ve been doing skilled nursing facilities and senior living facilities for 47 years and have several hundred of these facilities in 46 states and two countries,” Tobin said.

Future land use and development

The land is already designated for commercial use, but what happens if the project changes? “If this were to completely discontinue and go away, that property would be eligible for redevelopment consistent with the zoning,” said Chris Rison, senior county planner.

Special permit details

The special use permit is tied only to Ashton Health’s operation, not the land itself. “Staff has recommended this will not expire, which for this economic investment is typical,” said attorney Jimmy Gooding. “This is a 103,000 square foot building, it’s going to cost about $50 million.”

The proposal now heads to the Board of County Commissioners for final consideration.

More news that matters to you…