Final Beam "Tops Off" Long-Awaited Rivers Grosse Pointe Construction

Cheers rang through the air Thursday morning as the final beam was placed on the independent living area of The Rivers Grosse Pointe, a retirement community that takes over the site of the former Children's Home of Detroit.

Despite heavy rain this spring and summer, workers trudged on to complete the frame of the Riverview Health village, which includes 77 units for independent living and 80 for assisted living, which are slated to be open in January of next year. The 40 condominiums on the property could be occupied as early as September.

Referring to the placement of the beam on Thursday, Riverview Health CEO Richard Levin said he views this as a symbol of progress, not as success, noting the long road ahead.

"Hard work starts today," said Levin.

Levin invited those Grosse Pointe Woods City Council members in attendance, including Mayor Robert Novitke, to sign the final beam which he said was a representation of The Rivers' place in the community, and the ability to build a relationship and grow a strong partnership together.

Meanwhile, Novitke, said that he is "truly impressed" with the project and welcomes The Rivers to the community.

According to Grosse Pointe Woods Building Official Gene Tutag, The Rivers Grosse Pointe is expected to bring a few hundred jobs to the community. This number also includes the 150 construction workers which Tutag says have helped to stimulate the local economy, including nearby restaurants.

The planning process for the Rivers took roughly two years and included demolition of the former Children's Home of Detroit. Ground officially broke on the project last fall.

To learn more about The Rivers Grosse Pointe including services and programs, visit Riverview Health's website.