Loma Linda Poised to Get First Assisted Living Facility

A staff recommended 83-bed skilled nursing facility project that is expected to bring jobs and property tax money to Loma Linda was given the green light by City Council on Tuesday.

Councilmembers also approved a change in zoning for the area, 25383 Cole St., to from high density residential to healthcare.

The council voted unanimously to approve the $6 million project, proposed by Chancellor Healthcare of California. It is expected to expand the existing 83-bed Linda Valley Care Center nursing facility and include the construction of a two-story, 34,308 square-foot facility with 46 units, 53-bed, assisted living residence with a secured memory care unit for up to 28 residents, according to a staff report.

The home provide care for seniors who need Alzheimer's and memory care. Residents at different levels of independence will be accepted. The facility would be the first assisted-living facility in the city, according to city officials.

“The staff is in full support of this project,” said assistant planner Allen Penaflorida. “I know it’s been, for us, a labor of love. It’s been rewarding and the applicants have been very patient.”

Some patience has been required on the part of developers and city staff. There were a few tense moments during an Oct. 5 Planning Commission meeting after commissioners detailed areas they wanted to see improved, including more parking closer to an entrance, a lack of shade on the south side of the building and better hallway lighting. Sky lights and shade structures were added to the plan.

The problems were quickly addressed, Penaflorida said. Councilmembers were satisfied with the changes made by the developers to meet the Planning Commission’s request.

“No project is perfect,” said councilman Stan Brauer. “But a lot of work went into this one.”