At our core, The Arc is driven by our vision of creating communities where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are included and empowered. That work extends beyond supporting individual people – it’s about reimagining neighborhoods, cities, and towns as accessible spaces where everyone belongs.
The communities we envision are possible, and Chesapeake Community Development is a critical partner in making these communities a reality.
Through innovative development projects and a commitment to listening to the needs of local communities, Chesapeake Community Development is building the infrastructure for a better future, one where people with IDD can live the lives they choose in communities that are inclusive and welcoming.
“Our work began with providing affordable and accessible housing to people with IDD in communities across the region where everyone feels like they belong,” said Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development for Chesapeake Community Development. “We are proud to bring the same energy and vision around inclusion, access, and belonging to all of the residential, retail, and commercial spaces we are developing in 2025 and in the years to come.”
Building for the Future
Like all aspects of The Arc’s enterprise, Chesapeake Community Development has grown exponentially in recent years, with a robust portfolio of development projects, including Port Street Commons, which opened in 2024. With more than 180 units slated for completion by 2030, we anticipate that well over 200 families will be living in a home built by Chesapeake Community Development within the next 5 years.
“As community leaders, we listen to the families in our neighborhoods when they tell us about wanting to live somewhere safe and affordable that is also close to community resources, amenities, transportation, and their workplaces,” said Benincasa. “With the success of Port Street Commons in Easton and our years of experience creating housing for people with IDD, we have a reputation for creating exactly what our communities need and want for themselves.”
What’s Next for Chesapeake Community Development
Chesapeake Community Development has numerous properties in various stages of development, all of which are part of the vision for building more accessible communities that provide housing, resources, and opportunities for economic self-sufficiency.
2025 marks the beginning of demolition and site work for two transformative projects in Easton, MD – Easton Crossing and Silo Court.
Easton Crossing is located on a 6.5-acre former agribusiness site in the heart of Easton, MD. Demolition is anticipated to begin in February, with Phase One construction beginning in 2026. The mixed-use development was designed with input from the community and will feature over 120 residential units. Approximately 30% of the units will be affordable, with the remaining 70% offered at market-rate. Additionally, 20,000 square feet of commercial space will line the Rail-to-Trails, promoting economic growth while creating a vibrant community hub. With green spaces, a fishing pond, and a dog walking trail, Easton Crossing blends residential, commercial, and recreational elements to reflect the aspirations of Easton’s residents.
The construction of Silo Court will begin in Fall 2025. The 28-townhome community will offer a mix of 4-bedroom units with garages and 3-bedroom units, appealing to diverse family sizes. Communal spaces like a gazebo, green areas, and direct access to Rails-to-Trails will encourage outdoor activity and connection. With 25% of units designated as affordable for households earning 85% or below of the area median income (AMI), Silo Court strikes a balance between affordability and modern living.
Chesapeake Community Development continues Phase One construction of The Primrose House, located in Easton’s Historic District, anticipating the completion this spring. This phase of construction involves rebuilding two outbuildings to provide three new housing units. The project continues The Primrose House’s legacy as a historic boarding house while contributing to Easton’s balanced growth.
Construction of The Laura House will start soon near downtown Easton. This 5,500-square-foot property will be converted into seven two-bedroom apartments, incorporating both affordable and market-rate housing. Scheduled to open in Fall 2025, The Laura House exemplifies Chesapeake Community Development’s commitment to scattered-site, small-scale solutions that foster inclusive communities.
In Anne Arundel County, Chesapeake Community Development will soon begin construction on two properties – WB&A North and Nursery Road.
The WB&A North Expansion in Severn, MD, is scheduled to begin construction in early 2026. This project will expand an existing duplex into a quadplex, adding two additional 2-bedroom units, one of which will be fully accessible.
At Nursery Road, Chesapeake Community Development will construct a fully accessible 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home that will support people with IDD served by The Arc. Supported by Arundel Community Development Services (ACDS), this project prioritizes accessibility and independence, with construction starting in Summer 2025.
A Vision of Inclusive Growth
As Chesapeake Community Development launches these ambitious projects, it’s clear that the future holds more inclusive opportunities for communities across the state. These developments are more than just buildings—they are vibrant spaces designed to foster connection, opportunity, and growth. By blending affordable and market-rate housing, incorporating thoughtful design elements like green spaces and accessibility features, and engaging local communities in the planning process, Chesapeake Community Development is setting a new standard for what housing can achieve.