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Greenhouse Group Greenhouse is a re-forming group, previously Chesapeake Cohousing. We are pleased to announce that we have found a site and have applied for redesignation to permit development. We are optimistic about the outcome, and have a two-track Timeline for approvals and member growth with occupancy planned for the fall of 2010. VISION: We formed Greenhouse Group to create a mutually supportive community which will bring fellowship and meaning to our senior years. Through the stimulus and commitment of community we hope to extend our years of independent living. We are committed to diversity, moderate cost, and a thoughtful response to the sensitive natural environment of our site through green building and sustainable development. SITE/LOCATION: Our site is located in the treasured Eastport district of Annapolis. We will occupy the wooded rear half of the St. Luke’s church property (Google 1101 Bay Ridge Avenue), which is an ideal location for senior housing. The Eastport Shopping Center, offering restaurants, shops, bus stop and services, is next door, and a bank and post office are only a short walk beyond. One church is our next door neighbor with another close by, and a rehab /nursing home is only a few blocks away. The property is environmentally sensitive and has three specimen oaks over three feet in diameter. When a three hundred foot buffer from Back Creek and slopes along a swale were deducted, the reduced developable area of our site suggested buildings of increased height and reduced foot print. Happily a smaller building footprint also reduces our impact on the site. We have a sensitive planning concept in a truly Smart Growth location. BUILDING CONCEPT: A curved drive defined by trees leads to a parking area, which due to senior occupancy is only half the standard size. A walkway leads past the greenhouse face of the Common House which is placed for easy initial access and views overlooking the grassy central court. Opposing but slightly canted three and four story residential wings with a two story connecting bridge complete the definition of the court. Although the site calls for apartments, the typical cohousing pattern of front porches and connecting walks is repeated on each story of the wings, assuring lively activity on all levels of the court. The structures of varying height, from one to four stories, combine to create an interesting and appealing Greenhouse Group. GREENHOUSE GROUP: Currently we are three households, but our Development Timeline calls for increases in membership concurrent with our progress through the approval process — to reach a minimum of thirty households before construction starts in the spring of 2010. We are committed to diversity, and city law requires 5 of our 39 units to be affordable. This is the time to join us so your voice can be heard in the many decisions which lie ahead, and you can assure your place in Greenhouse. BENCHMARKS ACHIEVED TO DATE: + Registered formation of Greenhouse Group LLC DEVELOPMENT TIMELINE: (simplified)
CONTACTS: Carol Kelly Diana Corbett |