With the unanimous approval of its Board of Directors, Smith Crossing confirms it will start construction of the first phase of its expansion plan, announced Michael A. Flynn, CEO of Smith Senior Living which sponsors the southwest suburbs’ only continuing care retirement community.

When completed in spring 2011, this new wing will house 14 additional assisted living residences and 16 units for residents with memory care needs.

Concurrently, Smith Crossing will convert its existing memory care wing into accommodations for 16 additional skilled nursing care residents, according to Flynn.

The second phase of Smith Crossing’s construction, which will be separately financed, includes plans for two new wings added to the east of the main building.

They will house 76 new independent living apartments and common areas.