By Jacqueline Kimball
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Earthmoving equipment and dirt. While that’s the view now at the Hickory Chase construction site in Northwest Columbus, here’s what residents can expect when the Erickson retirement community opens in 2009.

Sparrow’s Ridge
A U-shaped structure, the Sparrow’s Ridge residence building offers a wide range of apartment home styles. “We have 17 different floor plans to accommodate the preferences and budgets of all our residents,” says Hickory Chase’s Marketing Director, Heidi Shuryan.

Sparrow’s Ridge houses a nondenominational worship center and a wood shop. “The wood shop might not have all its equipment when Hickory Chase opens,” Shuryan says, “but that’s to give residents a chance to make it their own.” As with everything else at Hickory Chase, the wood shop isn’t a one-size-fits- all activity. Residents’ ideas and suggestions influence the way it’s outfitted.

The building’s library is also the residents’ own. Besides setting policies and managing it, they’re stocking it with books from their own collections.

Cardinal Clubhouse
Cardinal Clubhouse is a short stroll from Sparrow’s  Ridge through a glass-enclosed, climate-controlled walkway. The clubhouse always buzzes with activity. The fitness center waits just inside the clubhouse door, and the aquatics center with its all-season pool beckons just beyond.

Cardinal Clubhouse sprawls larger than any other Erickson community building. From clubs, classes, and card groups to lively conversations across the dinner table, opportunities abound to make new friends, explore new ideas, and pursue favorite pastimes. There’s even a convenience store.

Special clubhouse features
Residents can enjoy taste-tempting meals at two restaurants—The Audubon for fine dining and the more casual Meadowlark Café. And they can reserve a private dining room for special gatherings.