Shepherd of the Valley breaks ground for Salem Campus

Over the next two years, the landscape off the State Route 62 bypass in Salem will be changing. 

That's because leaders with Shepherd of the Valley are at the breaking ground checkpoint of expanding its footprint.

"We couldn't be more excited about expanding our geographic footprint here in Columbiana County, and the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive," said Lauren Flauto, director of marketing, sales and communication with the retirement services provider.

34 acres which used to be home to local soy bean crop is where seeds are now being planted, seeds Shepherd of the Valley say will look after the area's aging population for years to come. 

Phase one is already underway.

"We are going to be building 36 independent villas and they range from 975 square feet to 1465 square feet," said Richard Limongi, CEO of Shepherd of the Valley, talking about phase two of the project.

Phase three will see 36 assisted living units split up into three ranches and a clubhouse. Phase four will bring about independent living apartments, a first for Shepherd of the Valley.

"An independent, mid-market apartment building. When I say mid-market, it's someone that's upper-lower-to-middle class," Limongi explained, adding that the needs and wants of seniors have changed over the years.

The $60 million four-step plan is slated to be complete toward the end of 2027. Limongi says Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation will be added down the road when the need is there.

Officials say this senior living community will meet today's needs in terms of health and wellness, social life and access to loved ones.

"That's exactly what we're trying to accomplish at Shepherd of the Valley Salem, is having the clubhouse with the onsite restaurant, the marketplace, basically everything at their fingertips," said Flauto, referring to future residents.

There is already 40 individuals on the waitlist for the independent villas.