By Sharon Still
At Kings Point, serving residents’ needs is a priority and after three years of research and planning, $3.7 million in renovations have begun on the 24,000 sq. ft., two-story building located at 2020 Clubhouse Dr. to create a state-of-the-art wellness center.
“The wellness center will have features designed for mind, body and soul,” said Ginger Anzalone, Vesta Facilities Management Vice President.
The facility will house a large fitness center, spa and salon as well as two exercise studios. Upstairs will be multi-purpose rooms for meetings, cards, classes and small functions.
Anzalone explained that information from a Kings Point community survey was used, as well as contributions by the management company, multiple committees, the board of directors and various focus groups and demographic trends and data by national organizations.
“All was used to finally arrive at the current model,” she said.
Previously, the developer used the building and, subsequently, as office space by a realty company. The original footprint of the building will stay intact with only a partial removal of the second story space to allow for a more spacious feel to the exercise studio.
The two existing gyms on-site totaling 2,800 sq. ft. of workout space will eventually close when the larger, more modern 3,600-sq.-ft. gym opens.
“It will only occur at board approval and the timing will be gradual and in conjunction with future development,” Anzalone stated.
Wichman Construction projects 180 days for construction, according to Anzalone. Following completion of construction, Vesta Facilities Management will equip the building and design the operations. She anticipates the opening will be January 2015.
In addition to building renovations, the parking lot will be expanded by 60 spaces.
Anzalone explained that the funds for the project were part of the proceeds from a new loan made to the trust that will be paid for by existing budget dollars previously dedicated to a long term effort to accumulate funds for the same project.
“Therefore,” she said, “the resident assessments will not be increased as a result of the loan itself, however in the future they may increase for operation costs related to the project.”
Kings Point is an exclusive active adult community with more than 5,250 homes, 63 holes of golf, six indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts and hundreds of unique social clubs, groups, organizations and classes. Entertainment, education, recreation and friendships are all found within the realm of the retirement community.
Kings Point is located in Sun City Center and can be reached by calling 642-8990. The community’s Website is www.kingspointscc.com.
