December marks a significant milestone for affordable housing in Easton, Maryland, as The Residences at Port Street welcomed its first families. Located at 482 Port Street, The Residences are part of Port Street Commons, a 24,000-square-foot new construction that integrates housing, office space, and services in a central community location.
As families begin to call these beautiful, brand-new units home, they are finding both independence and opportunity in a space designed with their needs in mind.
“It is so nice for us to finally have our own place as a family,” shared one resident. “I was able to move out of my childhood home and give my daughter her own place to grow up in. Finding an affordable home that is beautiful, safe, and still close to my work and my dad is a dream come true.”
A Vision for Independence & Opportunity
Created in partnership with The Arc Central Chesapeake Region and Chesapeake Community Development, Port Street Commons and, specifically, The Residences at Port Street is an important step toward creating more inclusive communities where everyone has access to resources, community amenities, and greater economic opportunity.
Managed by Chesapeake Neighbors, The Residences feature nine affordable two- and three-bedroom apartments for tenants earning up to 65% of the area median income (AMI). Two units are universally designed, offering accessibility for people who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Amenities include in-unit washers and dryers, modern appliances, free Wi-Fi, and private parking.
“Port Street Commons was created to give families in Easton more choice and independence when it comes to housing,” said Judi Olinger, Executive Director of Chesapeake Neighbors. “Seeing the first residents move in has been incredibly heartwarming. One tenant ran up to me on move-in day, gave me a big hug, and exclaimed, ‘I’m home!’ That moment will stay with me forever.”
Meeting a Critical Need
Securing a unit at The Residences highlighted the region’s urgent need for affordable housing. An online lottery conducted in Fall 2024 attracted overwhelming interest—over 200 applications in the first 24 hours alone.
“This type of affordable housing is so rare,” said Judi. “Not only is it a brand-new construction, it is thoughtfully and beautifully designed. These homes are meeting a critical need for families who want safe, high-quality housing where their children can thrive.”
With large windows, modern stainless-steel appliances, in-unit washers, dryers, and microwaves, free Wi-Fi, and private parking, the units rival market-rate apartments in the area. Families moving in were delighted to discover homes that were both welcoming and beautiful.
“Our goal is to provide housing that doesn’t look or feel like affordable housing—it’s simply high-quality housing,” explained Keenan Trexler, Assistant Director of Property Operations of Chesapeake Neighbors. “We have 24/7 maintenance, detailed checklists to ensure everything works perfectly, and staff on hand to guide residents through their new homes. We take pride in maintaining these properties for the long term.”
Among the four families who moved in this week are six children, including a child with a disability who will benefit from one of the universally designed units. For these families—all longtime residents of Talbot County—this milestone is more than just a move; it’s the beginning of a brighter future. “Living here gives us the opportunity to save up for a home of our own someday,” one family shared.
The Residences at Port Street are within walking distance of Easton Elementary School and Easton Point Park and are across the street from George Murphy Community Pool and Morton Park.
Judi continued, “This is about creating opportunities for families to thrive, for children to grow up in safe and high-quality environments, and for our community to move forward together. This week, we saw the start of something truly special.”