Artis Senior Living, Metropolitan Bath Plans Progressing

The number of business developments coming to Reading have slowed slightly in recent weeks and months, but a pair of projects are among those still in the works.

Staff Planner Jessie Wilson said that earlier this month, Artis Senior Living received its special permit after they presented before the Zoning Board of Appeals.

As a result, developers are free to pursue their demolition permits and eventually complete construction.

Wilson said last week that it’s not yet clear when planners will pull those permits. She said it’s possible that developers may first need to obtain a state license and approvals for operating the type of facility they intend to run.

Artis Senior Living proposes to build a 64-unit facility at 1090-1100 Main St. for elders who need help with activities of daily living, such as dressing and eating.

Another project that Wilson said is in the works is located at 545 Main Street, where Metropolitan Bath used to be.

Minor site work is being done to the building to make it more compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act. The construction is being done to move a door, likely in advance of a tenant moving in.

Wilson said it hasn’t been made clear who will be filling the vacant space, but the last she heard the landlord was negotiating with a yoga or fitness studio.