Sod turns on new 12-storey seniors’ residence located on former Sundial Inn site

For nearly half a century, on the north side of Highway 11, a giant sundial offered panoramic views of Lake Couchiching and served as an iconic landmark that let travellers know they were passing through the sunshine city.

Built in 1961, the Sundial Inn was a welcome respite for the weary. Its restaurant was booming with both visitors and locals alike.

After years of transforming into various different properties, its allure gradually faded. It closed in 2008 and was demolished by the city in 2011. The property was purchased and construction began on the Sundial Lakeview Retirement Residence; a four-storey, 100-suite facility.

On Thursday, a ceremonial sod turning marked the start of phase two of construction on the new 12-storey, 152-unit seniors’ apartment at 600 Sundial Drive.

• Former Sundial Inn site to get new life as retirement residence

“As our population ages, such a facility — boasting 100 technology-enabled rooms, meals, housekeeping, activities and health care — is much needed,” the city shared. “It also provides a vital boost to the economy; at completion, the facility could employ up to 70 people, and construction costs alone could generate $25 million in the coming years.”

The decision to demolish the Sundial in 2011 was a controversial one for many. Members of council, staff, and project developers were on hand for the official sod turning of the retirement residence that would take its place in December 2015.

Phase one of the Sundial Lakeview Retirement Residence included 100 resident rooms. The $15-million project was expected to employ approximately 50 people, mainly health care professionals, food and beverage, and administrative personnel.

The planned second phase would bring the total value of the project to approximately $25 million and employ up to 70 people.

This development represents the second phase of the growing Sundial Lakeview Retirement and Residences community, following the successful opening of retirement home.

Mayor Don McIsaac, local councillors, and members of the community along with representatives of Sundial Lakeview Retirement joined together to celebrate this milestone in Orillia’s evolving housing landscape for seniors.

With 2015 files from CTV Barrie staff.