Apartment Complex Grows on Lafranier

TRAVERSE CITY — What a few months ago was an empty field on LaFranier Road has sprouted apartment buildings. More are on the way at the site, along with a community building.

“We have three buildings up, with a foundation poured for the fourth,” said Arn Boezaart, director of business development and community relations for Westwind Construction.

The complex, across the road from Grand Traverse County’s LaFranier campus, eventually will include 232 apartments in nine residential structures.

The entire housing complex, inside all buildings and on the grounds, will be smoke-free.

“Ninety-nine percent of the people I’ve talked to absolutely love the idea,” said Property Manager Jessica Grossa.

A couple of potential residents who smoke told her that rule was a deal breaker.

The complex is cat- and dog-friendly, Grossa said. A fenced dog park with paved circle walkway and grassy areas already is nearly complete. Some dog breeds known to be aggressive are prohibited, according to the development’s website, www.ridge45.com.

Three residential buildings have been framed and enclosed. Finish work is proceeding on the first building, and residents are scheduled to move in beginning in December. The second building will open in January, the third in February. Each of the eventual nine structures will include 20, 24 or 36 apartments each. One-bedroom apartment rents start at $940 per month. Two-bedroom apartments range from $1,150 to $1,225 per month. Three-bedroom apartments rent for $1,355 or $1,380 per month. Boezaart said 27 units have been rented.

Single-car garage stalls are part of each building but rent separately. Most of the renters who have signed up so far have taken at least one garage.

“Some people are actually grabbing two,” said Grossa.

Outdoor parking is available at no extra cost.

The community building, located near the center of the development, will include an event room, a 24-hour fitness center, a business center, billiard and poker tables and a TV/game room. A firepit, grill and an outdoor pool and spa will be installed nearby.

“We call it an extension of the residents’ living rooms,” said Grossa of the community spaces.

Westwind, based in Spring Lake, broke ground Tuesday on a second apartment complex in Traverse City, Trailside45, at 650 S. Garfield Ave. Its single building will include 74 apartment units.

Midwest Property Development Inc., Westwind’s management arm, will manage both properties, Grossa said.