VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay, a senior living community on Shore Dr. near the Lesner Bridge, is breaking ground on a $450 million expansion project to house more seniors.
The project aims to add a new 226-unit structure, called the “Independent Living Bay Tower,” to the senior living community.
Project organizers said the new tower will have luxury amenities including a sky lounge, a plunge pool, a pickleball court, an entertainment room and more. Other on-site accommodations include assisted living, memory care services, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation.
Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay leaders say the addition comes at a crucial time: they cited a study that says Virginia Beach is one of the top three metro areas in the country with the “most significant demand” for more senior housing. Leaders referenced another study that says the city will see an increase of nearly 50% in its senior population by 2030.
During the groundbreaking, Mayor Bobby Dyer joked about being part of the "silver tsunami."
“When you think about the need for senior housing in Virginia Beach, it’s a national need. We are an aging population. As a matter of fact, your mayor is a Truman baby."
Also at the groundbreaking ceremony were Attorney General Jason Miyares and John Littel, Virginia's Secretary of Health and Human Resources.
Some neighbors had previously voiced concerns about increased traffic and the height of the 22 story tower. They were also concerned about the public beach access being moved to accommodate the project. However, a new path has been built. Westminster-Canterbury staff says it was completed last week and that it is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. They stated that landscaping will be added once the weather improves.
According to Westminster-Canterbury, the project is expected to create over 155 new jobs and generate an additional $2.3 million in property tax revenue for the city.
Bay Tower is expected to be completed in late 2026 or early 2027.
