Construction started this week on the interior of the former Dollar Savers building in Warroad as it begins its transformation into LifeCare Warroad Wellness. A Groundbreaking Ceremony was held on Thursday, April 21st to officially announce the start of the total building renovation.
Approximately 60 people attended the program, including LifeCare Medical Center staff, Warroad Community Development (WCD) representatives, members of the City of Warroad, Warroad Chamber and CVB, in addition to staff from Comstock Construction, (general contractors for the project), representatives from Foss Architecture and Interior, (responsible for the foot print and design of the new space) and community members.
The short program was emceed by Shannon Carlson, COO of LifeCare Medical Center, who credited the strong strategic partnership between LifeCare and Warroad Community Development for making the vision a reality. “All four walls of the previous building will be used for the project, however, we did find some ground to break inside of the building,” says Carlson. “LifeCare could not be more excited for this project, and we are happy to make this announcement. This is truly the beginning of something amazing for the community.”
Other speakers at the program were, Keith Okeson, (President/CEO of LifeCare Medical Center), Cyndy Renfrow, (Executive Director of WCD), Rick Trontvet, (WCD and Marvin), Tom Goldsmith, (WCD), Kevin Thompson, (City of Warroad), Chuck Lindner, (LifeCare Board of Directors), and Jim Nelson, (Foss Architecture and Interior).
During construction, Warroad Rehabilitation Services will be moving to the new location. “We are hopeful that by January 2023, all construction will be complete and we will be settled in our new, beautiful space,” says Jeremy Anderson, Director of LifeCare Rehabilitation Services. “Until that time, we ask for your patience, as we may experience some noise, temporary walls and interruptions of certain services.” Anderson added that the temporary Fitness Center is already at the new location, and to date, that has been working well.
When complete, the 13,000 square foot building will house LifeCare Rehabilitation Services, LifeCare Behavioral Health Services, a community Fitness Center with walking track, Wellness services and programming. Northern Chiropractic will remain in their current space.