The Homestead Rehabilitation and HealthCare Center Newton announced today that Phase One of planned renovations to the 102 bed facility is underway and up to one million dollars has been allocated to this stage of the renovation process. The facility is upgrading its infrastructure as it simultaneously initiates the rejuvenation of several community areas within the building. This undertaking is in advance of anticipated building wide renovations, which may see Phase One construction begin in several months.
Implementation of improvements to the infrastructure and rejuvenation of select resident and community areas began almost immediately after the purchase of the Homestead in December 2012.
“We are a company dedicated to providing a quality experience for our patients, residents and staff.” said Administrator Jake Lighten. “While the infrastructure upgrades will improve operation, function and efficiency, our rejuvenation efforts are tangible signs of our commitment to and appreciation of our community.” Major renovations to the building will be coming in the near future for the Homestead Rehabilitation and HealthCare Center, formerly the Sussex County Homestead. Multiple design teams, experienced in nursing home design and renovation are submitting their final concepts for the building. Several key considerations will influence the selection of the final design. “The plan we select will best accommodate our expansion of rehabilitative and nursing services but it will also reflect the values and flavor of the community and the family-like culture that is core to the Homestead’s long reputation in Sussex County. “ Administrator Lighten said. Design options for the building exterior are also being reviewed at this time.
The building is situated on more than 14 acres of picturesque landscape which provides four –season viewing pleasure from almost any location in the building. “The exterior design we choose must harmonize with the landscape.” Lighten said, “The Homestead Rehabilitation and HealthCare Center is also exploring every opportunity to implement green technology and construction wherever possible. We want to preserve, conserve and enhance this beautiful piece of Sussex County landscape and heritage (referring to the original Homestead building). As members of the Sussex County community we understand the value of the natural resources in our care and hope to work together with those organizations who have the expertise to help us further enhance our campus in an environmentally friendly way.”
Lighten continued, “Over the course of the next few months, we will continue to direct resources on the improvement and rejuvenation of community areas in our facility…those places where patients, residents and families spend a great deal of their time. The auditorium and community recreation/dining rooms are being repainted. State of the art Smart TVS and a surround sound system will be installed in the auditorium and community dining rooms. The electronics were made possible through the funding support of our long -standing partner the Homestead Quality of Life Foundation. Once these community areas are completed, we will begin the process of refreshing residents’ rooms. Our major renovations will also be implemented in phases to minimize any inconvenience to our resident population. We’re looking forward to the design change and to the positive impact it will have on our ability to improve the delivery of rehabilitative healthcare and enhance the Homestead experience for all.”
