Mayflower Community’s Watertower Square project was recently recognized with the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Economic Impact Award. The award is given annually to a business, organization, or individual that has made a significant contribution to the economic vitality of the Grinnell area, through job growth, expanding the tax base, building or renovating a structure, or participating in other endeavors that benefit the community and its residents. In 2015, Jeld-Wen was the recipient, and Brownells in 2014.
The Watertower Square residences on the Mayflower Community campus are the culmination of more than five years of research, planning and construction to address the local housing need for independent apartments for those over age 55.
Ground was broken on the $10.3 million Watertower Square project in August of 2014, and the first residents moved in October 2015. While many of the new residents are from Grinnell, the project also attracted newcomers to the community and retained residents who may have moved elsewhere. Mayflower Community’s investment and vision for the Grinnell community were recognized at the Chamber’s awards ceremony in March.
Watertower Square adds 26 high quality apartments to the perimeter of downtown Grinnell. Each residence has access to a patio or deck, an adjacent community garden, and underground parking, as well as tunnel access to the entire Mayflower campus. Watertower Square residents also have access to all Mayflower Community dining services, healthcare, campus activities, and transportation services. Residents pay a monthly service fee that includes utilities, recycling, light housekeeping, snow removal and grounds care.