College Station Prepares for Influx of Seniors
February 10th, 2008 categories: Real Estate News
A much needed change is in the air in Bryan and College Station. Finally both are considering resources to draw retirees to the Brazos Valley. Aggieland has long been an area that retirees are interested in. The university here provides city amenities with small town convenience and we have St. Josephs Hospital, well ranked as far as heart concerns, one of the leading issues with seniors. Many are well acquainted with the area, they either were students themselves or sent their kids here (many did both) and are anxious to come back to our beautiful area. Another major draw is the proximity to the major Texas cities of Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio.
Despite the draws many are hesitating in moving here. I, myself, have counseled seniors many times. They come in wanting to know what the area offers. Other areas offer senior citizen centers, lifestyle consultants and retirement friendly communities. When they hear our current senior programs they fail to be impressed.
College Station is proposing a Senior Center (voted on in the November 2007 bond election) that would be an excellent draw to the area. The proposed center offers a pool, excercize rooms, banquet room, class rooms and a library. A full time staff as well as volunteers will be available.
Both cities are looking for developments for over 55 residences. The current Briar Meadows has gone to Phase Two development and is filling up fast. This has made many developers and builders take notice.
Bryan already, in addition to Briar Meadows, has a plan for Gartenheim Ranch, an age-restricted community close to Miramont Golf Course. This two hundred acre area is aiming for a community where walking and other healthy activities are the norm, and will be looking towards building a privately owned and optional senior center within the community.
It’s a great time for development in Bryan and College Station.