DELMAR — The pandemic that has gripped the nation has found its way into Bethlehem and the Spinney Group knows its residents, like everyone else, are at risk for COVID-19. Yet the Spinney Group’s leadership team is stepping up to the task. “We think what makes us stand out is our low-density community layout and the creative social and event programming we offer,” Alex Ruthman, CFO, said. “This combination has lent itself well to maintaining social distancing and lessening contact while keeping residents connected to each other and the community at large.”
The Spinney Group has adapted its programs to meet both state and federal COVID-19 guidelines. Once the pools opened in July at Adams Station and Spinney at Van Dyke, residents were eager to make a safe splash and cool off. Residents also enjoyed the nature trails surrounding each property for programs and spacing out while getting some much-coveted fresh air. Whether working in the community garden, barbecuing with a spouse or walking the dog, the ample grounds in each community provided residents with an opportunity to take full advantage of outdoor living.
The Spinney Group’s indoor living environments also help reduce risks associated with COVID-19, Morgan Ruthman, CEO, said. Each residence has its own HVAC and filtration system, ensuring no cross-circulation that those in larger buildings might experience. Each residence also has its own entrance/exit, allowing residents to easily maintain proper distancing as they come and go. At Adams Station, vestibules are open and airy, allowing for maximum ventilation. Apartments are also fitted with either a deck or balcony, so there is plenty of room to stretch out in the sunshine if residents are hesitant to participate in joint, socially distanced activities. Those activities have been expanded and revised in the COVID “new normal,” and include outdoor concerts, scavenger hunts, yoga classes, bike riding and more.
“We are local business owners who prioritize the health and safety of our staff and residents above all else,” Morgan said. “We take the responsibility of management very seriously because we are keenly aware we are providing our residents nothing less than a sense of home and safety in a time of great uncertainty,” Morgan continued.
“We want to make sure everything we do mitigates risk for our residents and allows them to enjoy the quality of life they knew before the pandemic,” Morgan said, who also noted that the biggest responsibility during the pandemic has been understanding and rapidly addressing the changing needs of residents.
Now into the seventh month of the new normal, The Spinney Group is experienced in adapting current amenities to fit ever-changing circumstances.
“In a era of widespread strife, when many public places remain closed or restricted and peoples’ world has shrunk, it is especially critical for property managers like us to provide an oasis of normalcy and step up and act as community builders,” Alex said.