By MELISSA DIPENTO
An old hotel is about to get some new life. What once was a place for weary I-295 travelers to spend the night will soon be turned into an assisted living facility.
In January, Spring Hills Senior Communities purchased the old Inn at Cherry Hill at 1450 Route 70 E.
The property, which will feature 140 units, is currently being gutted and rehabbed, said Rick Kramer, the spokesman for the company.
Kramer said Spring Hills Cherry Hill is anticipating a July opening.
The building has seen its fair share of owners over the years. The building, just off of I-295, was built in 1971, said township spokesman Dan Keashen.
From 1971 to 2001, the building operated as the Sheraton Poste. In 2001, the space switched hands and became the Clarion.
And from 2001 to 2010, the Inn at Cherry Hill occupied the building.
“It’s part of the evolution of Cherry Hill,” Keashen said.
Spring Hills has developed seven similar properties, including two in New Jersey.
When the property went on the market, Kramer said, the company knew it was the right time to buy.
“It’s a great opportunity and a great location on 70. And it’s in the heart of Cherry Hill,” Kramer said.
Currently, Kramer said, the property is undergoing major construction, with crews gutting rooms, loading sheetrock and framing the new rooms.
“Nothing will remind you of the former building,” he said.
Kramer said Spring Hills Cherry Hill will combine luxury living with assisted living care. The facility also uses a holistic approach focused on mind, body and spirit. The facility will include studios and one-and-two bedroom accommodations, ranging from $4,700 to $8,100 a month, Kramer said.
Spring Hills Cherry Hill will feature large rooms, a gourmet restaurant, a theater with accommodations for 50 people, as well as a courtyard garden.
The facility will also feature a dedicated first-floor memory unit, with space for about 25 residents.
Kramer said workers will bring down the Inn at Cherry Hill sign in the near future. Kramer said he is looking forward to seeing the final transformation.
“We brought it back. It will be nicer than it ever was,” Kramer said.
