wsbtradio.com/wsbtam/news/local/wsbt-mishawakas-toscana-park-growing-20130219,0,4649579.story
By Colleen Ferreira (cferreira@wsbt.com)Click here to follow Colleen on Twitter
WSBT-TV
6:32 PM EST, February 19, 2013
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Construction is underway for a hundred new apartments off Gumwood Road, and businesses in that area are already welcoming the extra traffic flow.
The concept is easy: You can go grocery shopping, go to the gym or out to a nice dinner and it's all just a few feet away from where you live.
Developers say these high-end apartments will change the dynamic of Toscana Park, and businesses in there can't wait to cash in on all the new tenants.
In about 6 months, the snow will be gone and construction will be over.
The end result will be 100 new 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with high-end finishes.
"It's going to be a heck of a suburban lifestyle, really," said Brad Toothaker with South Bend real estate firm CBRE Bradley. He teamed up with Great Lakes Development and together, they're transforming Toscana Park into a modern living experience.
"We know there's a demand for it," Toothaker said. "We've received tons of calls and letters since the announcement of the project, so its been great."
Since Great Lakes Development took over most of Toscana Park last June, the area has seen movement.
A dance studio opened, progressive insurance added a storefront, a new pizza place popped up and a surgery center is set to open in a few months. Now, there are only 4 vacant storefronts left.
"We're happy to be a part of the turnaround," said Carrie Riepenhoff with Tony Sacco's Pizza.
Tony Sacco's just opened about a month ago, and they're confident the new apartments will keep them packed.
"I think it will bring more business to everyone and it will be an asset to everyone in the community," Riepenhoff said.
But even long-standing businesses in the area, such as "The Olive Branch," are excited for more traffic flow.
"I think the potential for growth is great, and it would give people an opportunity to frequent the businesses, just leave their cars parked and take a walk across the villa," said Linda with The Olive Branch.
Developers are catering to empty nesters, professors, traveling professionals and small families.
"The units will be larger and more homey," Toothaker said. "It's an exciting place to live."
Units will range from $1,100 - $1,900, depending if you're in a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom. That price includes a fitness club, indoor garage parking attached to your unit. It doesn't include utilities.
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