Opening a shiny new skilled nursing facility may not be a big deal in many places, but in long-suffering Detroit, the unveiling of a freshly built long-term care center is truly a momentous occasion.
When the $23 million, 91,600-square-foot Regency at Chene opened its doors in February, it did so to much fanfare, with the mayor, city council and federal legislators all showing up to celebrate a positive addition to the urban landscape. After decades of neglect, Detroit is on the upswing — with buildings like Regency at Chene underscoring the resurgence.
The community sits in the heart of Detroit, and is located south of the Eastern Market district, one of the oldest sections of the city, populated by 200-year-old churches and historic homes.
In addressing the importance of the new center, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan thanked owner Ciena Healthcare for its “investment in the people of Detroit, in terms of the care this beautiful new facility will provide, as well as the jobs it will create.”
Regency at Chene includes 46 private, 55 semi-private and four bariatric suites. All are barrier-free and have private bathrooms. Amen-
ities include three dining rooms, comfortable lounges for families and guests, activities, a café, library and full-service salon and spa.
The interior color scheme of blue, white, gray and even a touch of pink is intended to promote tranquility, with the soft tones designed to enhance comfort.
The entire facility is backed up by emergency power, a 750-kilowatt generator installed by Gleeson Constructors of Troy, MI. CEO Charles E. Gleeson II says the auxiliary power source is a necessary part of the infrastructure because “it allows for constant 24/7 uninterrupted power, including elevator operations, which is essential for the facility and healthcare functions.”
Clinical services are an important focus at Regency at Chene, as residents have a wide range of comprehensive therapy and nursing care services, all under the direction of a board-certified physician. Skilled services at the facility include 24-hour nursing care; physical, occupational and speech language therapy; and a state-of-the-art rehabilitation gym.
Ciena President Mohammad Qazi adds that another benefit of Regency at Chene’s strong clinical emphasis is the reduction of hospital readmissions.
“This community continues to show our commitment to the city of Detroit by providing high-quality care to its citizens and to play an ongoing role in the city’s growth,” Qazi says.
The new building replaces two smaller nearby facilities, from which those residents are scheduled to transfer. Once those residents are successfully moved, Qazi plans to donate the buildings to the Detroit Rescue Mission for use as a job training center.
