Baltimore County retirement community plans expansion

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Broadmead Inc., a senior living provider based in the Hunt Valley area, has acquired a three-building commercial office portfolio in nearby Sparks as part of a plan to convert 221,000 square feet of space into 80 independent residential units and amenities.

The acquisition comprises 910, 920 and 930 Ridgebrook Road – property consisting of mid-rise buildings on roughly 60 acres.

According to MacKenzie Commercial Real Estate Services, the expansion of the retirement community’s existing campus, which occupies about 94 acres, is pending approval by the Maryland Department of Aging. 

“Broadmead at Ridgebrook” is the life plan community’s first off-site campus expansion since it opened in 1979. Upon the receipt of final approvals, Broadmead also intends to convert the interconnected buildings into complementary wellness spaces, dining venues and outdoor amenities.

Tom Fidler, executive vice president and principal of MacKenzie Commercial Real Estate Services, represented Broadmead in the sale negotiations, the company said.

“There continues to be a growing need for senior and independent living options as the ‘Silver Tsunami’ takes full effect and the baby boomer generation seeks housing and medical support for the next phase of their lives,” Fidler said.

“Broadmead has been searching for land or existing building assets that could fulfill their mission of providing best-in-class residential living and health care services, and MacKenzie identified the Ridgebrook Road campus.” 

According to Fidler, the property’s zoning needed to be modified from M1 (light industrial) to residential, which took shape in November 2024 with the support of the Baltimore County Council. 

“Following an extensive due diligence process that included market and financial feasibility studies, plus architectural and engineering reviews and planning, the site was determined to seamlessly align with Broadmead’s commitment to sustainability and overall vision,” Fidler added.

Broadmead reportedly purchased the office spaces for $21.4 million.