Greystar Plans 55+ Community in Gilbert

By Tasha Anderson for AZBEX 
Greystar Development & Construction is looking to develop a new 55+ apartment community at the NWC of Recker Road and Somerton Boulevard in the Cooley Station area of Gilbert. 
The Town of Gilbert heard a request for site plan approval for the project, named Greystar Active Adult Apartment Homes, including approvals for landscape, grading and drainage, elevations, floor plans, lighting, colors and materials at its May 6th Planning Commission study session. 
The development is proposed as a premier 55+ gated active adult apartment community consisting of 201 dwelling units in a mix of one- and two-bedroom floor plans. The project has three building types: a three-story main building which will include two main amenity spaces; approximately 10-12 casitas serving as duplexes; and a two-story villa building containing multiple units. 
“The main building is located at the center of the site with a main entrance porte-cochere upon entering from Recker Road,” according to the town documents. “The main building extends towards Somerton Boulevard; first floor units along Somerton Boulevard will have direct access to the sidewalk along the street.” The casitas will be lined along Somerton Boulevard and the villas building will be situated along Recker Road. 
A total of 296 parking spaces will be provided on site including a mix of surface, covered and garage parking. Greystar has also requested a reduction in parking from the required 353 spaces. 
Other on-site amenities include ample green space, dog park, community clubhouse, recreation and fitness and pool area with lounge. 
The community’s design includes brick, stucco and wood composite material with colors including white, beige, red and dark gray. “There is a mix of gable, shed, and parapet roofs to provide movement in addition to the movement of the buildings to provide articulation and avoid linear elevations,” the documents state. The architecture is contemporary and is consistent with the Cooley Station area design. 
According to the staff report, the proposal also includes Somerton Boulevard improvements, allowing the road to meet up with the future Verde Drive. 
Greystar still needs to bring the project to Gilbert Planning & Zoning and Town Council for approval.