CCRC expansion demonstrates that large-scale building can be done sustainably

The 28-unit expansion at The Commons in Lincoln, a not-for-profit continuing care retirement / life plan community in Lincoln, MA, is the largest the town has seen since it adopted the Massachusetts Specialized Energy Code. 

“A key part of this development is following the latest energy codes on sustainability related to new construction,” The Commons in Lincoln Campus Executive Director Reynaldo LeBlanc told the McKnight’s Business Daily. “In addition, we’re investing in expanding a healthy ecosystem outdoors with purposeful wildflower garden designs and a thoughtful long-term planting plan — both of which have been conceived with the involvement of residents.”

LeBlanc said the expansion at the community, which is about 20 miles west of Boston, was necessary to accommodate a growing waitlist and provided an opportunity to invest back into the Lincoln community.

“From a financial standpoint, the project builds on our stability as a nonprofit by improving our operating surplus so that we can continue investing more dollars into improving our community over time,” he added.

The expansion includes two three-story additions to the main building, Russell House; an addition to Flint House; and eight new cottage-style homes. Three of the new apartment units are designated as affordable senior housing. Upgrades to common areas, new resident gardens and other sustainable amenities also are part of the project. 

Specifically, the new units will have:

• a high-performance building envelope; 
• eco-friendly, cellulose wall cavity insulation; 
• triple-pane, high performance windows with a U-value of .16; 
• LED lighting
• solar-ready roofs
• all electric units that meet efficiency standards;
• electric heat and energy efficiency mechanical systems with integral energy recovery regulators.

Of the 28 new units, 19 already have deposits on them. The first residents are expected to move in next spring.

The Commons in Lincoln said it is committed to reducing its carbon footprint holistically. In addition to the new units, the CCRC is adding electric vehicle chargers and Dark Sky-compliant exterior lighting. The community also has developed a planting plan to complement the campus’ natural ecosystem and surrounding conservation land.

“For other communities considering sustainable investments, I would encourage leadership to involve and listen to residents. Our residents have played an integral role in partnering with management while providing input and feedback about the project,” LeBlanc said. “They are passionate about their home, invested in the community, and they want the best for its long-term vitality and for the health of the environment.”