La Plata, MD – Enterprise Community Development marked the grand opening of Magnolia Gardens, a 72-unit affordable housing community in La Plata, Maryland, on May 7, 2025. The event, attended by state and local officials, celebrated the first non-age-restricted 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) development in Charles County, addressing the region’s critical housing shortage.
State Senator Arthur Ellis, State Delegates Kevin Harris and Edith Patterson, and La Plata Mayor Jeannine James joined Enterprise leaders and project partners to commemorate the milestone. The community offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments across four garden-style buildings, designed to serve working families, individuals with disabilities, and a broad range of income levels.
“Magnolia Gardens stands as a solution to the critical shortage of housing for so many who live and work in Charles County,” said Janine Lind, President of Enterprise Community Development. “These apartment homes offer a range of housing options that are modern and energy efficient and provide a much-needed resource, housing for essential local workers, including fire fighters, teachers, bus drivers and police officers.”
The development includes 13 units reserved for individuals and families with disabilities earning at or below 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The remaining units cater to incomes from 20% AMI to market rate, ensuring accessibility for diverse residents. A centrally located clubhouse features a fitness center, computer room, and community space, fostering an inclusive environment.
“We greatly appreciate all the work that Enterprise has done and continues to do for the residents of Charles County,” said Maryland Delegate Kevin Harris. “It’s all about ensuring that what we do is what’s right for the community and Magnolia Gardens is right for the community. Thank you for your dedication to building affordable housing and doing so in this county where it is so needed.”
Located in a high-growth area, Magnolia Gardens offers residents walkable access to schools, employment, healthcare, retail, and public transportation. A Maryland Transit Authority Park and Ride adjacent to the site provides direct commuter routes to the D.C. metropolitan region. The energy-efficient design prioritizes sustainability while meeting the needs of larger families.
The project, Enterprise’s first in Charles County, was a collaborative effort. Architecture by Design served as the project architect, Harkins Builders as the general contractor, and Lorenzi, Dodds & Gunnill as the civil engineer. Enterprise Residential manages the property and provides resident services, ensuring long-term community support.
Magnolia Gardens sets a new standard for equitable development in suburban and rural areas, backed by strong local leadership. The community addresses Charles County’s growing demand for affordable housing, offering a scalable model for workforce housing in high-opportunity areas.
Developments like Magnolia Gardens aim to balance affordability with access to amenities, supporting both economic stability and community diversity. The project reflects a broader push for inclusive housing solutions in Maryland’s suburban regions.
