One year after opening, Port Street Commons is already reimagining what’s possible when it comes to creating community and fostering inclusion. 

In Episode 6 of our Fello Thinking Differently podcast, Judi Olinger, Vice President of Housing Strategy, and Keenan Troxler, Assistant Director of Property Operations, reflect on the first year of Port Street Commons.  

Together, they discuss the sense of community that has come to define Port Street Commons, and why leaders across Maryland are looking to it as an example of what is possible when housing development puts people first. 

Not Your Traditional Developer  

At Fello Communities, tenants are more than residents—they’re neighbors and members of a community. That philosophy guides every aspect of our work, from property management and tenant services to maintenance support and leasing partnerships. 

“At Fello Communities, we certainly do strive to be the best landlords ever, the best property management company of all time,” said Keenan during the interview. “We want to offer the premier tenant services and experience for all of our tenants…I can certainly attest that the team we have truly thinks with their heart.” 

From responsive and supportive Maintenance Technicians to leaders who approach the design, construction, and pricing with the best interests of residents in mind, Fello Communities is redefining what it means to develop housing. Port Street Commons is an example of heart-driven leadership creating a lasting impact in a community.  

We’re Successful “When We Change People’s Lives” 

At Fello Communities, success isn’t just measured in occupied units; it’s measured in the lives we impact. 

“Our teams go above and beyond what’s required to truly meet the needs of our tenants,” says Keenan. “For instance, not too long ago, we hosted a back-to-school social event at Port Street Commons, where we were able to provide back-to-school supplies for eight of the children living there. Things like this set us apart from traditional landlords and also from the traditional tenant experience.” 

Creating positive tenant experiences goes far beyond responding quickly to maintenance requests and answering questions about leases. It means being there when it counts.   

Whether it’s a kindergartener starting school or a senior seeking accessible housing, Fello Communities strives to create an experience where residents feel supported and valued. Judi recalls an early team discussion about success: 

“When we hired new Maintenance Technicians, we asked, ‘What does it mean for us to be successful?’ One of the guys looked up and said, ‘When we change people’s lives.’ That’s what we’re talking about when we’re talking about the impact we strive to create.” 

It’s More Than a Building. It’s a Community 

Port Street Commons isn’t just housing; it’s a thriving, interconnected community. Neighbors know each other’s names, families gather on the playground, and the nearby Rail Trail connects residents to the broader Easton community.  

“We want to try to build personal relationships with each and every one of our tenants,” said Keenan. “And everybody knows each other…I think it’s just amazing how we’ve been able to form this cohesive community within the building.” 

Fello created Port Street Commons with a vision of it being a space where everyone could feel like they belong. “It has exceeded every expectation we had,” said Judi.  

Affordable Housing Can Be Beautiful Housing 

Port Street Commons offers nine affordable units, including two accessible units and one reserved for families transitioning out of homelessness in partnership with Talbot Interfaith Shelter. Each unit is thoughtfully designed with 42-inch counters, granite countertops, in-unit washer/dryer, and high-quality finishes—proof that affordability doesn’t mean compromising on quality. 

“When people walk into our units for the first time, they are stunned,” Keenan says. “You would never know it’s an affordable unit. This is about creating opportunity for everybody.” 

Units provide affordable housing options for working families who might otherwise be priced out of the area. 

What’s Next for Easton 

The success of Port Street Commons is inspiring the next wave of Fello Communities projects: 

• Laura House – A 7-unit mansion-style home in downtown Easton, including two affordable units and one for Talbot Interfaith Shelter. 
• Silo Court – A two-acre development with 28 townhomes, a mix of three- and four-bedroom units, 25% reserved for families earning 85% AMI or below. 
• Easton Crossing – Transforming a 6.5-acre grain silo site into a mixed-use development with 117 residential units, parks, retail, and 30% affordable housing. 

Each project builds on the foundation laid by Port Street Commons: intentional, inclusive, and community-centered housing.  

Join Us in Building What’s Possible 

Port Street Commons shows what happens when housing is designed around people, not profit. It’s a place where neighbors become a community, and residents thrive in spaces that are welcoming, supportive, and beautiful. 

“Our job isn’t finished,” Keenan reminds us. “But developments like Port Street Commons are a glimpse of what’s possible when organizations like Fello think differently.” 

Learn more at fellocommunities.org and listen to Episode 6 of the Fello Thinking Differently podcast.