Jefferson’s Ferry breaks ground on new senior living homes

South Setauket-based Jefferson’s Ferry, a not-for-profit life-plan community, is beginning construction on a new independent living addition, featuring 12 new one- and two-bedroom-with-den apartments.

“For more than two decades, our mission has been to provide an exceptional living environment grounded in independence, community and quality care,” Bob Caulfield, president and CEO of Jefferson’s Ferry, said in a news release about the construction.

“With demand for high-quality, diverse living options for older adults stronger than ever, this expansion allows us to respond thoughtfully and responsibly –  ensuring that older adults on Long Island have access to a place where they can age with dignity and connection, and enjoy the right balance of freedom and safety, supported by a community that truly values their well-being,” he added. “We are proud to continue building on that foundation.”

The organization held a groundbreaking ceremony last week, highlighting the project’s progress.

The event comes as Long Island now has more than 520,000 residents aged 65 and older, representing 17.8 percent of the population in Nassau and Suffolk counties – up from 14.8 percent a decade ago. These figures are from a report released earlier this year by the Center for an Urban Future, and was funded by a grant from AARP New York.

At Jefferson’s Ferry, the new apartments have active waitlists and are designed to meet Energy Star multifamily new construction standards, according to the news release. Features include upgraded insulation, high-efficiency windows and doors, all-electric heat pumps, energy-recovery ventilation and Energy Star appliances, aimed at reducing energy use and regulating indoor temperatures.

The groundbreaking was attended by Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico, Brookhaven Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich, representatives from M&T Bank – the financial partner supporting the expansion – and The Kulka Group, which is overseeing construction. Also in attendance were community stakeholders, staff and residents.

The groundbreaking marks the next phase of Jefferson’s Ferry’s multimillion-dollar “Journey Toward Renewal” initiative. Previous phases added 60 independent-living apartments, opened a memory-support neighborhood, upgraded fitness and therapy facilities and assisted-living dining venues and launched short-term respite care for Long Island caregivers.