Special Advertising Feature
Senior Vice President of Community Development | Chesapeake Community Development
Ross Benincasa has more than 11 years of experience in community development working on creative and collaborative projects that address community needs and combine access to resources, services, housing, and community spaces. He plays an integral role in partnering with leaders and communities by managing real estate development projects and leading a team of professionals dedicated to creating affordable and accessible housing in inclusive communities.
What is your vision for inclusive community development?
Our vision is to create communities where everyone, including people with disabilities, is welcomed, included, and empowered. This extends beyond supporting individual people; it’s about reimagining neighborhoods, cities, and towns as inclusive places that reflect the diversity and strength of everyone. Our new development, Easton Crossing, clearly demonstrates this. The project is the next step in our vision for inclusive communities—combining housing for people with disabilities, affordable housing, and market-rate housing, all of which coexist around community-wide amenities.
How are you reimagining affordable housing through your development practices?
People often carry assumptions about affordable housing. But we have shown that housing can be affordable and beautiful. People are genuinely surprised when I show them our affordable housing units, and they see the quality of the finishes. By incorporating energy-efficient appliances, modern design elements, and desirable amenities into our projects, we not only enhance the living experience but also save costs over time—for us and the tenants.
When we talk about affordable and market-rate housing coexisting, it’s about equality and equity. Unless I point it out, you wouldn’t know whether a unit is market rate or meant for a family transitioning out of homelessness. It’s a fantastic opportunity to challenge people to think differently about what people throughout the community want, need, and deserve.
What sets your work apart?
We want to be an active, valued member of the communities where we work. This commitment keeps us aligned with our mission-driven focus of making Maryland a better place to live by building and maintaining communities where everyone has access to resources and opportunities. People with disabilities—and everyone—deserve thoughtfully designed spaces to live, work, and connect. By balancing design and accessibility, we reaffirm each resident’s values as an integral member of our community.
Chesapeake Community Development | 999 Corporate Blvd, #300 | Linthicum, MD 21090 | 410-269-1883 | ccdmaryland.org
