The Eastern Shore of Maryland has a distinct history, culture, and opportunities for the families that call it home. However, access to services is limited for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
With the construction of Port Street Commons, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region is partnering with Chesapeake Neighbors, Chesapeake Community Development, and a wide range of stakeholders to create access and opportunities for the people of the Town of Easton and the Mid-Shore.
Port Street Commons is a 24,000-square-foot multi-purpose space located in the heart of Easton, Md. It will incorporate universal design and accessibility and will provide:
- Space for innovative services.
- Community resources.
- Mental health counseling.
- Nine affordable housing units.
This project will provide much-needed services and support broader community development efforts on Port Street.
What Does This Mean For The Community?
Port Street Commons is located at the corner of Port Street and Meadow Drive, along the Port Street Corridor. Through its redevelopment, Port Street will become a vibrant gateway connecting the historic Town of Easton with the Easton Point waterfront. Port Street will eventually include housing, recreational spaces, restaurants, and retail.
Port Street Commons is the first project to be developed along Port Street and is anticipating completion by Fall 2024. The project will use local labor in the construction and create 35 permanent new jobs when finished.
Port Street Commons will include The Arc at Port Street and The Residences at Port Street.
The Arc at Port Street
The Arc at Port Street will be The Arc Central Chesapeake Region’s Eastern Shore Headquarters and will support the organization’s growth and operations throughout the mid-shore.
This space will include:
Community Hub
A Community Hub is a gathering space that is open to the public. This is where the people and families The Arc serves can access resources, host support groups, receive family navigation services, and connect more fully with the community because they will be located in the heart of it. The Community Hub will expand existing services and support organizational growth.
Behavioral Health Suite
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are severely underserved in the mental health community. The Arc’s Behavioral Health services focus on providing therapy through trauma-informed care. With the Behavioral Health Suite, The Arc can support mental health counseling for people with disabilities, regardless of age or current affiliation with a service provider – making this a community-wide resource.
Office and Training Space
The rapid expansion of Eastern Shore programs and services requires additional physical space to support operations. The Arc at Port Street will support current and future growth. The space will also include a training center able to accommodate 100 people.
Eco-friendly Standards
Port Street Commons will be developed with as low-environmental impact as possible and incorporate sustainable energy initiatives. In addition to environmentally friendly operational practices, Port Street Commons will include solar panels on the roof of the building and chargers for electric vehicles.
The Residences at Port Street
The Residences at Port Street will be owned and operated by Chesapeake Neighbors, an organization committed to providing affordable housing for all.
The Residences will include nine 2- and 3-bedroom apartment units targeted for residents earning 30-60% Area Median Income (AMI). Chesapeake Neighbors will select future tenants through a competitive lottery process.
Two units will include universal design, and two will be permanently leased in partnership with the Talbot Interfaith Shelter to support people transitioning out of homelessness
How Can I Support This Project?
The Arc is soliciting support from the community to complete Port Street Commons.
Please consider making a gift by clicking the button below.