Briarwood Commons Apartments in Ellensburg, WA

1001 S Chestnut St, Ellensburg, WA 98926

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.4 from 11 reviews
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Independent Living

Overall Review of Briarwood Commons Apartments

Pros

  • pro Briarwood has excellent new management and high-quality maintenance and groundskeeping.
  • pro Briarwood is a great place to live.
  • pro The management team (Melinda and Zena) are very accessible.
  • pro The grounds are well maintained and the clubhouse is a nice place to hang out, with many activities offered.
  • pro Maintenance issues are taken care of in a timely manner.
  • pro The staff and community are excellent.
  • pro The accommodations are clean and modern.

Cons

  • pro The place is very prejudiced.
  • pro They suck and are hypothetical.
  • pro The management has the wrong kind of manager for this place.
  • pro The management doesn't care about the disabled or the elderly.
  • pro The management listens to rumors and not the real thing.

Review

Briarwood Commons Apartments in Ellensburg is best suited for active, socially inclined seniors who want a vibrant year-round community, solid maintenance, and a hands-on, accessible management team. This is a good fit for residents who value well-kept grounds, a welcoming clubhouse, and frequent on-site activities, all anchored by a convenient location with easy access to public transportation. It works well for those who prefer an affordable, amenity-rich option where staff responsiveness is a priority. Families seeking a low-key, ultra-private setting or a facility with comprehensive medical oversight should be realistic about whether this community aligns with those needs and may want to evaluate alternatives.

The strongest selling points are the elements that survive even mixed reviews: a refreshed management structure, dependable maintenance, and well-maintained grounds. The new leadership comes with evident attentiveness, and maintenance issues are handled promptly, which keeps common areas and apartments looking cared-for. The club?house, pool, gym, salon, and game room, along with ample parking, create practical daily anchors for residents. The calendar of activities - ceramic and art classes, movie nights, potlucks, and book clubs - helps sustain social ties and routines, while the proximity to transit supports independence for those who no longer drive. Taken together, these factors translate into tangible value and a reasonable cost-to-benefit balance for residents who want a lively, connected living environment.

Yet the experience is not uniform, and several reviews spotlight palpable downsides. Some residents allege prejudice and a sense that management does not adequately prioritize the needs of the disabled or elderly, accusing leadership of rumors-driven decisions rather than direct engagement. A few comments describe the staff or leadership as mismatched for the community, hinting at friction between resident expectations and the way concerns are addressed. This spectrum of experiences cannot be dismissed, as it speaks to real differences in how residents perceive safety, respect, and responsive care - issues that matter deeply to families evaluating long-term placement.

These tensions matter most when weighed against the concrete advantages. The presence of accessible management and timely maintenance helps offset concerns about neglect, because problems are more likely to be corrected quickly and transparently. The strong groundskeeping and active social framework provide a sense of belonging and predictability, which can mitigate anxiety around aging in place. For residents who prioritize independence and social engagement, the combination of services and programs can keep daily life engaging and manageable, diminishing the impact of concerns that arise from isolated negative experiences.

Prospective movers should systematically verify several aspects before committing. Speak with multiple residents about responsiveness, especially in handling accommodations for disabilities and elderly needs. Inquire about staff training, anti-discrimination policies, and the process for escalating concerns to ensure consistency across shifts and teams. Request up-to-date information on maintenance turnaround times and recent renovations, and assess whether the calendar of activities truly reflects resident interests. Compare with nearby communities that offer similar amenities but different care models to determine which environment aligns best with anticipated health needs, mobility, and desired level of companionship.

In the end, Briarwood Commons presents a practical, value-forward option for those who want an active, amenity-rich place to live with a proactive management presence and a robust social life. It is less suited for families prioritizing high-level medical oversight, a uniformly allergy-free environment, or a culture of zero tolerance for any discord. For those who can tolerate or contest the governance questions with evidence-based assurances - through conversations with staff, residents, and management - this community can deliver a satisfying balance of comfort, community, and convenience. If the priorities lean toward stronger medical support, quieter privacy, or a consistently harmonious climate, exploring alternatives remains the prudent course.

Features

Types of Care

  • Independent Living Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Pets

  • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
  • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

Description

Briarwood Commons Apartments is an assisted living community located in the picturesque town of Ellensburg, WA. Nestled in a serene and inviting neighborhood, this community offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents.

With five cafes nearby, residents can indulge in their favorite beverages and pastries while socializing with friends or simply enjoying some quiet time. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the close proximity of two parks, where they can take leisurely strolls, have picnics, or just bask in the beauty of the surroundings.

The well-being of residents is a top priority at Briarwood Commons Apartments. With eight physicians nearby, residents can easily access medical care whenever needed. In addition, knowing that there are three hospitals within reach provides peace of mind for both residents and their families.

For those who enjoy dining out or trying new cuisines, the community's location boasts an impressive selection of 20 restaurants nearby. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, there is something to suit every taste and occasion.

Transportation options are also readily available near Briarwood Commons Apartments. With three transportation services nearby, residents can easily explore the surrounding area or attend appointments without any inconvenience.

For individuals seeking spiritual fulfillment and connection with their faith communities, there are six places of worship in close proximity to this assisted living community. This allows residents to actively engage in religious practices that are important to them.

In summary, Briarwood Commons Apartments offers a vibrant yet peaceful setting for seniors seeking an active lifestyle within an inclusive community. With numerous amenities and services conveniently located nearby, residents can enjoy all that Ellensburg has to offer while receiving exceptional care and support.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Community Health Of Central Washington (0.2 miles)
  • Gary Bos, MD (0.3 miles)
  • James Repsher, PA-C (0.3 miles)
  • Ellensburg Pediatrics (0.3 miles)
  • Kittitas Valley Surgical Associates (0.3 miles)
  • Hiersche Daniel L MD Hiersche Dan L MD (0.3 miles)
  • KVH Family Medicine (0.4 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Ellensburg Foursquare Church (0.3 miles)
  • Faith Baptist Church (0.5 miles)
  • St Andrew's Catholic Church (0.6 miles)
  • Family Christian Center (0.6 miles)
  • Great Round-Up Covenant Church (0.9 miles)
  • Ellensburg Presbyterian Church (1 miles)
  • Peace of Christ Church of Naches (18.9 miles)

Restaurants

  • Golden Dragon (0.3 miles)
  • Los Cabos (0.3 miles)
  • Taco Bell (0.3 miles)
  • Teriyaki & Wok (0.3 miles)
  • McDonald's (0.3 miles)
  • Arby's (0.4 miles)
  • Subway (0.4 miles)

Hospitals

  • KVH Hospital (0.3 miles)
  • Kittitas Valley Community Hospital (0.3 miles)
  • Prestige Post-Acute and Rehab Center - Kittitas (0.4 miles)

Cafes

  • Koletty's Koffee (0.4 miles)
  • Starbucks (0.4 miles)
  • D & M Coffee Canyon Rd (0.5 miles)
  • Dutch Bros Coffee (0.6 miles)
  • D & M Coffee Downtown (0.9 miles)
  • Camo Coffee (19.2 miles)

Parks

  • Mountain View Park (0.5 miles)
  • Ellensburg Parks & Recreation (0.6 miles)
  • Volunteer Park (22.2 miles)
  • Selah Parks & Recreation Department (22.9 miles)
  • Harlan landing (24.2 miles)

Transportation

  • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (0.5 miles)
  • Rodeo Town Taxi (0.9 miles)
  • Rodeo Town Taxi (0.9 miles)
  • All That's Wild Taxidermy (20.8 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Howard's Drug (22.9 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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