Exciting Changes Are Underway at Charlestown

As baby boomers are preparing to retire, Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md., is preparing for their arrival by unveiling exciting new amenities that support a vibrant lifestyle. 

Renovations currently underway in the community's historic neighborhood include new dining options, an expanded music room and library, and a multipurpose gathering space that can double as an indoor pickleball court. 

Executive Director Don Grove notes, "Just as you would likely improve your house to match the latest styles or functionality, we are doing the same for Charlestown. Our goal is to continue to foster a community where retirees can enjoy an engaging lifestyle."

Exciting changes

The project, scheduled for completion in 2026, includes two new dining venues: a full-service restaurant with a bar and a fast-casual cafe with an outdoor seating area and a fire pit. 

Research conducted by Erickson Senior Living between January 2020 and April 2022 found that access to stress-reducing activities and opportunities for socialization in diverse settings are important to baby boomers. 

"Our restaurants are always buzzing with resident activity," says Grove. "These new dining options will be great places for residents to catch up with neighbors."

Also showing an interest in outdoor amenities, residents will be pleased to see the addition of a vast, park-like outdoor space located east of the community's treasured Our Lady of the Angels Chapel. 

Raised garden beds, to make growing vegetables and flowers more accessible; two outdoor pickleball courts; a pair of new bocce courts; a designated cornhole area; and a shaded lounge area with space for small performances are in the works.

Team effort

This comprehensive renovation project is coming to fruition after years of planning and development, informed by ideas and feedback from current and prospective Charlestown residents. 

Maria "Merci" Izquierdo-Whitaker, former president of the Residents' Council, appreciates that she and her neighbors have a say in the changes coming to the community they proudly call home. 

"Charlestown's administration continues to build upon its productive partnership with the Residents' Council, actively seeking out its opinion and that of individual residents. Don knows our community well," says Merci. 

To ensure that residents' voices are heard, Grove and his team remain in constant contact with the Residents' Council. 

Prior to the project's start date, residents were invited to attend focus groups and meet with the Strategic Planning & Capital Oversight Committee of the Board of Directors. 

"We were invited to review the architectural plans and make requests, some of which, happily, have been incorporated into the plans," says Merci.

Vibrant environment

"These renovations are an outward sign of the growth and success Charlestown has experienced over the last 42 years," says Grove. "We're creating an updated central hub for activity and social opportunities. This is more than just new carpet and paint--it's a complete refresh of the historic neighborhood to reflect the community's vibrant environment." 

And what makes Charlestown so vibrant is the wide variety of activities to pursue--all right within steps of residents' apartment homes. 

Amazing amenities

In addition to the renovations coming to Charlestown's historic neighborhood, the community boasts an on-site medical center, pharmacy, fitness center, indoor swimming pool, theater, TV studio, woodshop, hair salon, and bank.

"Just because you retire doesn't mean that you stop living," says Merci, pointing to the all clubs and activities there are to join.

She adds, "We have years left to enjoy, things to do, places to go, and knowledge to impart. We can be of service to others and share our wisdom. And we can inspire others to enjoy this vibrant community!"

Looking ahead

Other notable changes are also coming, notes Grove. "After noticing prospective residents' interest in larger living spaces, we're converting existing apartment homes into two-bedroom floor plans. We have already renovated many of the studio and one-bedroom apartment homes across the community into larger layouts," he explains. 

As these new apartment homes and amenities take shape, the community is eager to welcome more residents in the coming years. 

"These changes began in 2024," Grove notes, "but current and future residents will reap the benefits for years to come."

To learn more about affordable, independent senior living at Charlestown, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

FLOOR PLAN: Gibson - Two bedroom, one and a half bath with sunroom

With a large living area, updated kitchen, and generous storage, you can make your apartment home your own in the Gibson. The versatile second bedroom offers endless options as a guest room, home office, or craft space.

Request a brochure to learn more about our floor plan options, which come in a range of sizes to meet every need and budget.