Special to the
Opelika Observer
On May 26, developer Allen C. Harris of Chapman H LLC hosted the formal groundbreaking ceremony for The Springs of Mill Lakes, the amenity-rich 55+ community in Opelika that is slated to open for sales later in 2016. Mayor Gary Fuller, representatives of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, city council, Mayor’s office, Office of Economic Development and others participated in the celebration. This new active lifestyle neighborhood is developed by Allen Harris’ company, Chapman H LLC, and is located on Birmingham Highway close to East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) and minutes from Auburn University.
The Springs of Mill Lakes is a master-planned residential community of 133 single-family custom homes, specifically designed to appeal to the active 55+ homeowners who seek an easy-living lifestyle surrounded by nature. Generous terraced lots slope gently toward the community’s two mature lakes; other lots offer views of the adjacent wildlife sanctuary.
L. Mitchell Ginn & Associates designed the Clubhouse and homes; two well-known Alabama builders, Harris Doyle Homes of Birmingham and Auburn-based Homeworks of Alabama, will build 10 different floorplans and a total of 20 elevations, all following A Liveable Lifestyle (ALL) Home practices. Ben Webster with Chapman H LLC is the Project Manager.
The Springs of Mill Lakes will encompass 80 acres, and is bordered on the west by a 45-acre perpetually protected wildlife sanctuary. The community’s natural setting includes two 3.5-acre mature lakes, a wandering creek, and waterfalls. One lake will be used for recreation; the other lake will be stocked for fishing.
The lush master-planned community, with its monumental entry, will be further enhanced by walkways, a nature trail, paddleboats, canoeing or kayaking, and a dock on the recreation lake. The common grounds will be professionally landscaped and beautifully maintained. Residents will be able to enjoy The Springs of Mill Lakes and its abundant green space on foot, by bike or by golf cart.
In addition to its peaceful natural setting, thoughtful enhancements and relaxing water features, The Springs of Mill Lakes offers outstanding resort-style amenities for its active residents.
The Clubhouse will feature a large gathering lounge with fireplace, a catering kitchen, fitness center, meeting room, business center, flex room, and a floor for ballroom dancing. Construction on The Clubhouse will start in July 2016.
Other desirable amenities include a zero-entry pool, pickleball court, paddleboats, walking trails, and an event lawn.
In addition to the active adult homes, Windermere at The Springs will be located on the East end of the property. This will be the area’s newest independent and assisted living community and its only campus-style retirement community, constructed within The Springs, providing seniors with an active, comfortable, home-like environment without having to leave The Springs.
“The Springs of Mill Lakes will be the premier 55+ community in Alabama. We are building for the future,” Harris said. “We carefully chose to realize our vision for active living right here in Opelika – we love this vibrant small city with its historic downtown, lively restaurant scene, and lots of cultural events – and with its ability to run 100 percent fiber optic cables into all residences, shows its ongoing efforts to grow and prosper this community.
“Opelika has welcomed The Springs of Mill Lakes with open arms. We’re delighted to add many more reasons for people to move here.”
Tricia Peterson, Owner, and Nonet Reese, Broker/Owner of Three Sixty Real Estate, invite interested buyers to join the community’s interest list by calling 334-887-3601 to stay updated on the latest activity. “Make sure to tell your friends about this amenity-rich, new active lifestyle community underway at The Springs of Mill Lakes,” Peterson said.