Guard-gated entry draws nurse to Siena

     Susan Clark, a registered nurse, cited the 24-hour manned guard gate as her primary reason for buying a home at Siena, Sunrise Colony Co.'s development for people age 55 and older in Summerlin.
      "I feel more safe here," Clark said. "Security is especially important to me because ... my job takes me out at all hours. Buying at Siena has also been good for my financial security, too, because I know this community is only going to increase in value."
      Clark was also impressed by the size of the community, which is 665 acres.
      "First, there is an old-fashioned warmth and friendliness," she said.
      "Siena already feels more like a family than a community. The people here also have a real zest for life. It's very unusual for a community this size to have so many amenities, and they are close enough to the homes to walk or ride a bike."
      Amenities include a community center, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and boccie courts, and a golf course. The first nine holes are open for public play; the second nine are expected to open in June. Residents receive special rates and preferential tee times. A clubhouse with a pro shop, multi-tiered practice facility and indoor and outdoor dining is planned.
      Another factor in Clark's decision to buy at Siena was its location near the Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area.
      "I feel more in tune with nature up here," she said. "My job takes me all over the valley, from Boulder City to North Las Vegas (and) from east to west, but this is my favorite area."
      Buyers can choose from 14 floor plans, ranging from 1,200 to more than 3,000 square feet. All homes are detached, single-story designs. Prices range from the mid-$150,000s to $450,000. Golf course home sites are available.
      About 1,900 homes are planned for the community.
      To tour the models, take Sahara Avenue to Town Center Drive and turn south. Proceed past Desert Inn Road and follow the signs. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
      The developer also offers Red Rock Country Club in Summerlin.

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