Guard-gated security puts Siena resident's mind at ease

     Cecelia Grant cites the guarded gate at Siena as one of the major reasons she decided to buy in the age-qualified village in southwestern Summerlin.
      "I feel better knowing the guards are there," Grant said. "The night I moved into my new home, Siena's neighborhood patrol car followed me. The guard waited to make sure I was safely inside before he drove away. I really appreciated that."
      Grant, a retired schoolteacher from Long Island, N.Y., participates in the Metropolitan Police Department's Metro Volunteer Program.
      "Because of the volunteer work I do, I think I am much more aware of the difference these security guards can make."
      Sunrise Colony Co. is developing the 665-acre Italian-themed village, which features a tree-lined boulevard leading to its Tuscan-style entry gate. The neighborhoods are patrolled 24 hours a day.
      After moving in, Grant made friends with Ed and Vera Weber, her new neighbors who are also former residents of New York.
      "It's a small world," Grant said. "I headed happily into the sunset. I just wish I had come sooner. I love Siena."
      At buildout, there will be about 1,900 homes, one-third of which will align the fairways of the community's 18-hole championship golf course. The par-72 daily fee course measures from 4,941 yards from the front tees and 6,816 yards from the back tees, and is open to players of all ages. Residents receive special rates and preferred tee times. The club maintains a learning facility and has six professionals on staff. An 11,800-square-foot golf club is planned.
      Buyers can choose from 14 floor plans in five Mediterranean-style series of homes, all of which offer options such as casitas and courtyard fireplaces.
      Floor plans range from 1,200 to about 3,100 square feet. All are detached, single-story designs. Grant chose the 1,235-square-foot Plan 5110 from the Milan Collection.
      "I have had very large homes before, but I wanted to downsize. Now I really prefer a cozier space," she said.
      Professional interior designers are on-site to assist homeowners with the selection of options and upgrades.
      Prices start from the mid-$150,000s to more than $400,000.
      A 40,000-square-foot community center will feature arts and crafts areas, meeting rooms, library, ballroom and theater, card rooms, billiard room and business center.
      Additional amenities include outdoor swimming pools, spas, lighted tennis courts and bocce courts. A 15,900-square-foot fitness center is under construction and scheduled to open this fall with a cardiovascular and weight room, saunas, steam rooms, massage rooms, and a 25-meter indoor lap pool.
      To visit, take Sahara Avenue to Town Center Drive and turn south. Proceed past Desert Inn Road and follow the signs. Models are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
      Sunrise Colony Co. is also developing Red Rock Country Club in Summerlin.Siena resident Cecelia Grant, left, met her future neighbors, Ed and Vera Weber, at the age-qualified community's Italian Street Festival, which was held earlier this year.

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