NEW BERLIN - In a significant stride towards enhancing senior care in the region, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has approved $8 million in funding for constructing a new Chase Memorial Nursing Home and Rehabilitation facility adjacent to the existing site.

This announcement marks a pivotal moment for both Chase Memorial and the surrounding community of New Berlin.

The initial funding award, granted in February 2023, aimed to develop an 80-bed skilled nursing facility. However, following an extensive feasibility study that reached a 50-mile radius of New Berlin, it became clear that a refined approach was necessary. The study indicated that a 60-unit facility would better serve the community's evolving needs.

Currently housing 68 residents at Chase Memorial Nursing Home and Rehabilitation, part of Good Shepherd Communities, this project reflects a commitment to quality care. As part of this plan, there will be a gradual restructuring of beds during the planning process, while ensuring that the quality of care continues to align with Chase's high standards.

Jason Santiago, CEO of Good Shepherd Communities, expressed enthusiasm about the project:
"I am very pleased and excited that we have received approval from NYS Department of Health to build a new, state-of-the-art, 60-bed skilled nursing facility. Chase Memorial Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has been a part of the New Berlin community for 55 years. The residents and staff of Chase Memorial have been a part of the fabric of New Berlin and the surrounding community. Good Shepherd Communities recognized eight years ago that a new facility was necessary when Good Shepherd acquired Chase Memorial. This new facility will allow us to provide a home for our residents that promotes resident-centered care that our residents and staff deserve. We couldn’t be more thrilled with this announcement.”

Rick Allabaugh, Chair of the Good Shepherd Communities Board of Directors, added:
"The Board of Good Shepherd Communities is excited to hear that the NYS Department of Health has approved the proposed 60-bed nursing home in New Berlin. This new, modern facility will better serve the needs of the residents of New Berlin and surrounding areas. Congratulations to all those involved in making this happen. We look forward to seeing the building design, groundbreaking, and project completion. The residents and the family members of those residents at Chase Memorial deserve this major improvement in their quality of care.”

Plans are underway for breaking ground in Spring 2026. The Board envisions creating an environment where individuals requiring short-term rehabilitation and skilled long-term care can truly thrive.

"This announcement is a wonderful next step toward constructing a modern facility to support the senior care and rehabilitation needs of this area," stated Peter Lennon, Mayor of New Berlin. "Chase Memorial is more than just an economic engine for our community; it is integral to the spirit and character of our Village. With decades on the forefront of senior care and rehabilitation, Chase Memorial's commitment continues with this new development.”

The excitement surrounding this announcement echoes throughout both residents and staff at Chase Memorial as many share their eagerness for enhanced facilities that enable dedicated caregivers to elevate their standards further. For further information about Chase Memorial's new facility and ongoing updates on this exciting venture, please contact Elizabeth Viviano at (607) 484-6056.

Good Shepherd Communities has been serving seniors since 1870. Good Shepherd Communities is a non-profit corporation that provides management and administrative services to Good Shepherd Fairview Home, Good Shepherd Village at Endwell, and Chase Memorial Nursing Home & Rehab. These services include Independent Living, Assisted Living, Long-Term Care, and Skilled Nursing Care. www.goodshepherdcommunities.org.

- Information from Chase Memorial Nursing Home