Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Date: 2/28/2024
EAST LONGMEADOW — Fresh interiors, new lighting and wide-open rooms have made Holiday Bluebird Estates by Atria a more “cheerful” place to live, according to residents. The independent living facility hosted its grand reopening on Feb. 22, after a four-month $1.5 million renovation.
Most of the roughly 90 residents living at the facility came out to celebrate, as did state Sen. Jake Oliviera (D-Ludlow), state Rep. Brian Ashe (D-Longmeadow), Town Manager Tom Christensen and Deputy Town Manager Rebecca Lisi.
Holiday Bluebird Estates, 1 Apple Blossom Ln., was purchased by Atria Senior Living in 2021. In addition to the studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, the building has several common areas, including a large dining room open to the walkway above and an airy tower in the center of the building, with natural light that hits all three floors.
“It was already nice, and it came out better,” said General Manager John Freeley. He described the renovation as “a perfect opportunity to better serve our residents and the wider community.
Oliviera addressed residents, staff and guests, speaking about the beauty of the property, which used to be a farmstand, and the adjacent orchard. Ashe told Freeley and the rest of the leadership team at the facility, “Not only did you make the investment for our seniors, but to have a place where you feel respected is so important.”
Freeley said resident feedback has been positive and that they like the “clean, modern look and new furniture. The dining room got upgraded and that’s really popular with our residents.”
Resident Nancy Roy, who moved to the facility in 2023, was pleased with the changes. “It’s definitely better, more lively and cheerful. A lot of places for seniors are dreary. This is nicer,” she said. More than the aesthetics, Roy said she enjoyed living at Holiday Bluebird Estates because of the independence. “I can leave when I want. Somedays, you want to be by yourself, but that’s your choice.” When residents want to interact with their neighbors, there are many activities for engagement. “I like activities and I love to dance,” Roy said, adding that classes are also offered.
Carolyn Sullivan, a resident for three years, said there was no disruption during the construction. She, too, liked living at Holiday Bluebird Estates. “There’s wonderful people here. I get along with all the people. We have movies, functions and things to do. I play a lot of cards.” Referring to Freeley, she said, “John’s doing a good job.”
More information about Holiday Bluebird Estates can be found at http://tinyurl.com/nhfkmhr7.