What's Happening?
The first residents have moved into the Good Samaritan Founder’s Crossing development in southeast Sioux Falls, marking the initial phase of the nearly 100-acre senior living campus. Located at the northeast
corner of 57th Street and Veterans Parkway, the development aims to provide a full continuum of senior living options, integrated with a Sanford Health clinic and a Lewis Drug store. Currently, 16 of the first 20 villas are occupied, with 42 villas expected to be open by spring. These rental units offer customization options for residents, including backsplashes, cabinet colors, and the choice of a patio or fireplace. The villas are two-bedroom units ranging from 1,200 to 1,690 square feet, with attached garages proving particularly popular. The entire villa component, totaling 146 units, is projected to be completed by 2028 or 2029. According to Aimee Middleton, Good Samaritan Society chief operating officer, interest in the development has exceeded expectations, attracting both local retirees and individuals from out of state drawn to Sioux Falls.
Why It's Important?
This development is significant for the Sioux Falls community as it addresses the growing demand for comprehensive senior living facilities, offering an integrated health system senior campus. The inclusion of a Sanford Health clinic and a Lewis Drug store directly on campus provides residents with convenient access to healthcare and essential services, offering peace of mind for both residents and their families. The project's scale, with 146 villas and additional independent living apartments, assisted living units, and memory care suites, represents a substantial investment in the region's elder care infrastructure. The customization options for villas cater to individual preferences, enhancing the quality of life for seniors. Furthermore, the development is attracting new residents to Sioux Falls, contributing to local economic growth and reinforcing the city's reputation as an attractive place to live, even for those seeking retirement options or returning to South Dakota to be closer to family.
What's Next?
The Founder's Crossing campus will continue to expand with several key components. The four-story main campus building, featuring 120 independent living apartments, a movie theater, meeting spaces, a rooftop bar, golf simulator, and shuffleboard, is anticipated to open by 2028. Adjacent to this, a U-shaped building will house 32 traditional assisted living apartments and 32 memory care assisted living suites. A large central section of the campus will include a production kitchen, a woodshop, and a substantial therapy space for rehabilitation. A skilled nursing facility with a high rehab component and long-term care options will also be part of the campus. Additionally, a stand-alone wellness center with indoor pickleball courts, a pool, and a sauna is planned. Groundbreaking for the new Sanford Health clinic and an attached Lewis Drug store is expected late this fall, with delivery services from Lewis to residents also anticipated. Good Samaritan is actively encouraging interested individuals to reach out to join their interest list for future phases.
Beyond the Headlines
The Founder's Crossing development exemplifies a broader trend in senior living, moving towards integrated campuses that offer a full spectrum of care and amenities. This model not only provides practical benefits like convenient access to healthcare and daily necessities but also fosters a sense of community and engagement through various recreational and social facilities. The emphasis on customization in the villas reflects a growing recognition of seniors' desire for personalized living spaces. The integration with a major health system like Sanford Health and a retail pharmacy like Lewis Drug sets a new standard for comprehensive senior care, potentially influencing future developments in the sector. This approach aims to support seniors in maintaining independence and quality of life as they age, addressing both their physical and social well-being within a single, accessible environment. The project's success could serve as a blueprint for similar integrated senior living communities across the nation.
