ACREP and GEFCO EDC Support Erickson Senior Living Project in Westminster

The Westminster Planning Commission meeting on August 12, 2025, highlighted significant community discussions surrounding the proposed Erickson Senior Living Retirement Campus. The project has garnered strong support from various local organizations and residents, emphasizing its potential benefits for the community.

Lisa Haas, president and CEO of the Adams County Regional Economic Partnership (ACREP), voiced her support, citing three main reasons. Firstly, the project is expected to create numerous employment opportunities, particularly during the construction phase, which would involve local firms and provide students with valuable trade experience. Once operational, the campus would offer diverse career pathways in healthcare, culinary arts, and facilities operations, aligning with the needs of students from nearby Front Range Community College.

Secondly, Haas noted that the senior living campus would provide essential housing options for seniors wishing to remain close to their families and friends. This would not only benefit the seniors but also help free up housing inventory for first-time homebuyers in the area. Lastly, she highlighted the economic vitality the project could bring, referencing Erickson's positive community engagement in other locations, which could enhance local nonprofit partnerships and community involvement.

Conversely, some residents expressed concerns about the project. Chris Maloney raised issues regarding potential impacts on open space and traffic congestion, emphasizing the need to preserve community resources.

Support for the project was echoed by Lee Seager, vice president of economic development for GEFCO EDC, who pointed out the projected growth of the senior population in Adams County. He emphasized the importance of providing diverse housing options to meet the needs of this demographic, which is expected to exceed 136,000 residents by 2040. Seager also highlighted the economic benefits, estimating that the project could support 1,400 jobs annually and generate significant local investment.

Dr. Ryan McCoy from Westminster Public Schools also expressed strong support, framing the development as a vital workforce pipeline for students. He noted that the project would create approximately 700 jobs and offer internships and training opportunities in high-demand fields, thereby fostering professional connections for students within their community.

As the meeting progressed, public testimony continued, with residents sharing their views on the project. The discussions reflect a community grappling with the balance between development and preserving local resources, while also addressing the pressing needs of its aging population. The outcome of this proposal could significantly shape Westminster's economic landscape and community structure in the coming years.