Central Scottsdale Connect

Whole Foods to Anchor New Urban Infill Project at Site of Old Fry’s

Whole Foods to Anchor New Urban Infill Project at Site of Old Fry’s

by | May 2, 2024

Excitement is brewing in Scottsdale as plans unveil for a pioneering residential health care facility, introducing an innovative approach to senior living in the area. The buzz centers around the Headwaters project, a development aimed at adults aged 55 and older, promising a blend of healthcare and lifestyle amenities tailored to its residents. Slated for the southeast corner of 100th Street and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, Headwaters is planned to cover 6.7 acres of a 12.5-acre site, offering a substantial new hub of senior living with 171 units across 217,400 square feet. With approvals pending from Scottsdale’s Development Review Board, the community awaits this transformation eagerly.

Leading the charge is Denver-based Headwaters Group, known for their specialization in for-rent communities that cater to the senior demographic. Having already laid plans for similar ventures in Denver and Utah, Headwaters Group brings experience and a vision for senior living that extends beyond mere accommodation, boasting features like telemedicine, therapy services, and community dining spaces. The project’s anticipation was further heightened by the Scottsdale City Council’s unanimous vote to rezone the land, marking a significant step forward in the project’s journey from concept to creation. As Headwaters positions itself next to existing communities and near local amenities, it promises to be a cornerstone of senior living in Scottsdale.

The Headwaters project isn’t simply about providing housing; it’s a forward-thinking response to the evolving needs of the senior population and an example of urban infill development at its best. By marrying accessible healthcare and wellness services with the comfort of community living, Headwaters addresses a growing trend among seniors seeking balanced, service-rich environments. This development is part of a broader movement recognizing the importance of integrating senior communities within urban settings, allowing for a lifestyle that benefits from both on-site amenities and the vibrancy of the surrounding city. As the population over 65 continues to grow, projects like Headwaters are paving the way for a future where aging in place becomes not just feasible, but desirable.

Urban infill initiatives like Headwaters represent a shift towards more sustainably designed senior living spaces that offer residents the best of both worlds: the convenience of city living with the peace of mind that comes with tailored health and wellness services. According to Gensler, the global design firm, integrating senior living communities within urban settings stands to revolutionize how developers and city planners approach the creation of age-friendly environments. With Headwaters leading by example in Scottsdale, the project underscores a critical transition in senior housing, from isolated facilities to vibrant, integrated communities that enhance the lives of residents and the urban fabric alike. As the city prepares for the upcoming developments, the future looks bright for seniors and the community at large.