It was seven years in the making.

Hor d’oeuvres were served by Red Seal chefs in tall white hats to about 300 people who attended the official grand opening of The Wesbrooke Seniors Living Community.

“My heart is full to have had such a great turn out,” said Gwen O’Connell, Wesbrooke marketing manager and Pitt Meadows City councillor.

“When I ask people what they think [of the facility] the smile in their eyes and on their face says it all,” she said.

Several speeches were given at the opening including one by Randy Kamp, Member of Parliament for Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge-Mission.

“When you get to my age you start looking at projects like this with a different perspective,” the 59-year-old said.

The guests were also treated to live piano and bass music provided by IceJam Duo.

The new seniors’ pavilion is 9,450 square feet and has a large hall, a closed-in solarium, a stage, a lounge, and multipurpose rooms.

The rental portion of the new facilities include 114 units – 79 independent-living and 35 assisted-living apartments.

Reservations have been made for 80 per cent of the independent-living units already, and 28 per cent for the assisted-living.

Rent for independent living ranges from a junior studio at $1,690 per month to a two-bedroom apartment at $2,950 per month.

A regular studio goes for $1,950 and a one bedroom goes for $2,550. This includes rent, cable, all meals, housekeeping, seniors’ centre memberships, and various activities.

The cost for assisted-living will vary based on the resident’s requirements.