ORANGE PARK – Residents at Moosehaven sat eagerly for the AAA groundbreaking ceremony last Tuesday, which commemorated the start of two promising developments for the senior living community. 

"AAA" means "always active at" Moosehaven. Socializing and physical exercise are important for retired older adults' minds and bodies, and the community is committed to encouraging recreation of all kinds. 

The existing sports and recreation center will be torn down to make room for a modern, larger facility. Scherer Construction is leading the design and development of the two projects. 

"In May or June, construction will begin. It'll move from paper to the ground," said Helen Taylor, a director of Moosehaven. 

The new Mosehaven AAA building will have more space to play shuffleboard and go bowling. There will be a new bar, a workout gym, and an outdoor courtyard. 

A new pavilion will be built along the scenic riverside. It will come furnished with ceiling fans to fight off muggy summer nights, bathrooms, benches and a tiki bar. 

"It'll be transformational for the people who live here. They'll be able to come together at the recreational center or at the beautiful pavilion that will be along the river," said Mike Biagini, Vice President of Scherer.

Donations from Moosehaven members across the country made the new projects possible, said CEO of Moosehaven Scott Hart. More than $7 million was donated or fundraised. 

"It's all thanks to a donation of a $1 bill, a $5 bill, a $10 bill from time and time again," Hart said. 

The groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of the upcoming demolition and construction. Biagini said residents can expect to see their new facilities sometime next year.