Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello, took to the TEDx-style stage at the Maryland Economic Development Association’s (MEDA) Main Street Maryland Conference to share a message that resonated across the room: If we want thriving, connected downtowns, we must build communities where everyone can live, work, and belong.
The conference brought together leaders from across the state who are advancing housing initiatives and reimagining what’s possible for Maryland’s main streets. Jonathon’s talk added an essential perspective—affordable housing is a powerful tool to strengthen downtowns. It’s an approach grounded in equity, access, and the belief that strong communities grow when people have real opportunities to put down roots.
Watch Jonathon’s full talk to see how inclusive development is reimagining what’s possible for main streets across Maryland.
Asking the Right Questions About Revitalization
Fello’s story began with families who wanted their children with disabilities to be fully included, to have real equity, real access, and real opportunities to live as independently as possible. That foundation continues to guide our work today, shaping how we think about housing, community, and belonging.
Yet when towns and cities plan revitalization efforts, one question is often missing: Where will people live, and who will those homes be for?
At the conference, Jonathon asked attendees how many couldn’t afford to live in the communities where they work. Nearly half of the room raised their hands. It’s a reality felt by teachers, service workers, and other essential employees who keep our main streets moving.
People want to live close to their jobs, to gather with neighbors, and to feel connected to the heart of their community. That opportunity should be available to everyone.
Turning Empty Spaces into Thriving Places
Fello is expanding access to affordable housing by transforming empty, overlooked, or underused spaces into developments that bring people together. In Easton, that vision is taking shape as former agricultural and industrial sites become mixed-use communities filled with apartments, townhomes, green spaces, and opportunities for local businesses.
These projects aren’t theoretical; they’re already reshaping what it means to live where and how you choose. Port Street Commons expanded access to nine new families who now have a place they can proudly call home.
For Jonathon, the impact comes into sharp focus in one moment: the day a resident receives the key to their apartment. That key represents access, stability, and a sense of possibility that wasn’t previously available.
Building Main Streets Where Everyone Belongs
Reimagining Maryland’s main streets is about creating communities where people can truly live, work, and belong. Jonathon’s message at the MEDA conference was clear: inclusive, affordable housing is the foundation of revitalization.
By revitalizing spaces, increasing access to affordable housing, and promoting equity, we are creating vibrant, inclusive communities throughout Maryland.
Watch Jonathon’s full TEDx-style talk to see how Fello is turning this vision into action.