It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Baltimore, MD is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I had a wonderful experience working with their team. And would recommend them to everyone”
“Extremely responsive, professional, and friendly. Nothing but wonderful things to say about the process and”
“Haley and Toan have been an amazing resource to my mother and I, helping us”
“Haley and her team are a pleasure to work with! As a partner in the”
“My family and I couldn’t be happier with Always Best Care (ABC). From the minute”
“Very easy to work with and great communication. They go over and above. Would highly”
“I live in MD. I have very close friends who live in PA. The husband”
“My mother ended up immobile from a fall that happened Christmas morning. The following day”
“They were able to hook my mother up with home care services as soon as”
“Always Best Care Senior Services were our Angels in our time of need after my”
“I am currently a Certified Caregiver for Always Best Care. Haley and Gina have been”
“My experiences with Haley and Gina have been nothing short of spectacular! They are very”
“I had a wonderful experience working with their team. And would recommend them to everyone in my circle of friends and family”
“Extremely responsive, professional, and friendly. Nothing but wonderful things to say about the process and people. An evaluation was performed the same day I called about needing the service. They are very sensitive to your needs and follow through to make sure they are met in to the highest degree.”
“Haley and Toan have been an amazing resource to my mother and I, helping us with sitting services for my father in a dementia facility after his return from a hospitalization but they have really gone above and beyond. She has been an amazing resource and really cares about helping people. I am a nurse myself and so impressed with how proactive and helpful she has been, far beyond just sitting services. Very appreciated and much needed. I would absolutely recommend using her and her company to help you and your loved ones.”
“Haley and her team are a pleasure to work with! As a partner in the senior care industry, Always Best Care has been known to go above and beyond when it comes to working with, and educating families on options and resources. I am always happy to work with them, knowing they will provide the best care and options for the families they serve!”
“My family and I couldn’t be happier with Always Best Care (ABC). From the minute we reached out to Haley, the owner of ABC, we have received excellent service. Haley responded to all of our concerns and has gone above and beyond to be sure our loved one has what is needed. Haley and her team at ABC were able to set up care for our loved one on very short notice. Working with Haley has made a difficult situation much easier to navigate. I would highly recommend Always Best Care. THANK YOU!”
“Very easy to work with and great communication. They go over and above. Would highly recommend!!!”
“I live in MD. I have very close friends who live in PA. The husband was diagnosed with cancer. It was a diagnosis that came out of left field. It left them reeling with every unknown when they were told it had developed and progressed rapidly. I called a friend, who lives in my home state, to ask if she knew of any companies that could not only provide health care services to my PA friends, but be ready to do so without delays. She referred me to Haley Davis with Always Best Care Senior Services. I called as soon as I hung up. I left a voicemail, and received a call from Haley within 10 minutes. Providing as much detail and information as I could, I was assured they would be able to provide different levels of care as they were needed. She also said that I, or any member of my friends’ family, could call her if we needed anything. Today my PA friend said she emailed Always Best Care Senior Services last night. Later today I heard that Haley responded, and services were put into place. The absolute last thing anyone should have to be concerned about when they are emotionally overwhelmed and physically depleted from a devastating disease is dealing with automated phone systems, reaching the correct departments, filing requests in triplicate, and being told they’ll be put on a waiting list. Absolute Best Care Senior Services is just what the name says. They aren’t just able to provide the services that will be needed, they provide the peace of mind that allows their clients to focus on themselves. That’s what caring and compassion are about. I don’t think I could ever express my gratitude. Thank you.”
“My mother ended up immobile from a fall that happened Christmas morning. The following day we got in touch with Haley Davis, the owner/president of Always Best. She came to our home (within hours) on her day off. Had rented a wheelchair, reserved transportation to get our mom home, set up a nurse assessment and RN in-home care within 24 hrs! Our family couldn't be more pleased and appreciative of Haley and her team... class act!”
“They were able to hook my mother up with home care services as soon as she left rehab. Very flexible with scheduling and hours. Competitive pricing. I would recommend them.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services were our Angels in our time of need after my Mom’s heart surgery. Haley, Erin and Rebecca were all fabulous, super responsive and extremely professional and knowledgeable. We don’t know what we would have done without them. We very highly recommend them!”
“I am currently a Certified Caregiver for Always Best Care. Haley and Gina have been incredible! I love the communication, the dedication and consistency to helping others. Meeting new clients/patients is exciting and gives me purpose! Knowing I can be assistance to help others that need just a bit extra is an amazing feeling! This company is like a family as well as our clients. We treat everyone with the dignity and care that everyone should be entitled to. Despite being employed with the company, I would still offer these services to friends and family! :)”
“My experiences with Haley and Gina have been nothing short of spectacular! They are very caring and compassionate. This is is the group that you should consider for any of your loved ones assistance! Highly recommend them!!!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Druid Hill Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Charleston or visit Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Baltimore, MD, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Baltimore, MD understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Baltimore, MD 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
An incoming cold front could bring storms to Maryland earlier than expected, and as oppressive heat blankets the Baltimore region on Wednesday, an air quality alert is also in effect.The Maryland Department of the Environment issued a Code Orange air quality alert for the Baltimore ...
An incoming cold front could bring storms to Maryland earlier than expected, and as oppressive heat blankets the Baltimore region on Wednesday, an air quality alert is also in effect.
The Maryland Department of the Environment issued a Code Orange air quality alert for the Baltimore metro and Annapolis region, according to the National Weather Service.
A Code Orange means that air pollution concentrations within the region may become unhealthy for sensitive groups. Sensitive groups include children, people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases, and the elderly. The effects of air pollution can be minimized by avoiding strenuous activity or exercise outdoors.
Additionally, most of the region was under a heat advisory Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., according to the NWS. Temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 90s, with heat index values reaching up to 109 degrees.
Meanwhile, a few isolated late-afternoon showers or thunderstorms can't be ruled out, especially west of D.C., according to the Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang.
On Thursday, showers are possible in the morning, with additional showers and thunderstorms likely after 11 a.m., according to the NWS. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue through the afternoon into evening as a cold front approaches, with a threat of damaging winds and flooding, forecasters said.
"Scattered showers and storms are likely during the evening. Some storms could bring damaging winds and flooding," the Capital Weather Gang wrote. "Less intense showers and storms remain possible overnight with muggy lows in the 70s."
As the cold front exits the state, temperatures will be significantly cooler Friday and through the weekend.
Wednesday: Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming south around 6 mph in the afternoon.
Wednesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 77. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Thursday: A chance of showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 11am. Increasing clouds, with a high near 93. Heat index values as high as 103. Calm wind becoming southeast around 6 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Thursday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely before 8pm, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm between 8pm and 2am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2am. Low around 70. Northeast wind around 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between three-quarters and one inch possible.
Friday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 77. Northeast wind 7 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
Friday Night: A chance of showers before 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 81.
Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 63.
Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 83.
Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.
Total Project Budget: $65,000 (~480 Volpe staff hours between five employees plus travel for one site visit) Project Timeline: September 2023 – July 2024 Project Partners: National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways, U.S. DOT Volpe Center, ...
Total Project Budget: $65,000 (~480 Volpe staff hours between five employees plus travel for one site visit) Project Timeline: September 2023 – July 2024 Project Partners: National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways, U.S. DOT Volpe Center, Baltimore National Heritage Area Project Deliverables: (BNHA_Preliminary Transit Feasibility Analysis); and 2) Preliminary Transit Analysis Report and Presentation (BNHA Transit Feasibility Report Final Presentation).
National Park Service (NPS) Chesapeake Gateways (CHBA) partnered with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Volpe Center (Volpe) to conduct a preliminary transit feasibility analysis and partner engagement for the possible implementation of a transit shuttle service connecting the natural, cultural, and historical points of interest within the Baltimore National Heritage Area (BNHA), the communities that host them, and other sites of interest in the City of Baltimore, Maryland to support BNHA.
Project Purpose: To assist BNHA to better understand the need and next steps for improving transit service to BNHA sites in order to increase visitation and equitable access to the Heritage Area sites. The project provided BNHA with information to support and inform future decision-making and next steps for partnering to implement a proposed service. The service route options provided within the report are based on existing public transit services, historic visitation patterns (as available), a possible dedicated BNHA shuttle service, anticipated implementation requirements, and other administrative and operational factors.
The BNHA comprises historic structures, landscapes, cultural traditions, parks, museums, and other resources that collectively convey the unique heritage of the City of Baltimore. BNHA’s mission is to promote, preserve, and enhance Baltimore’s cultural and historic legacy and natural resources for current and future generations. BNHA staff express a need to increase visitation and equitable access to Heritage Area sites through improved transit between sites. A dedicated transit service route is envisioned as one way to connect the BNHA sites, while also providing unique visitor experience that gives visitors and residents a cohesive story about Baltimore’s heritage.
The project investigated scenarios for improving transit service to BNHA sites, either through a new partner-operated service or through enhanced collaboration with the City of Baltimore on the existing Charm City Circulator, which is the City’s public transportation service that currently provides connectivity to many of the BNHA sites. However, BNHA staff indicate that current service connections do not connect visitors to these sites in an intentional and sufficient way. For example, there are gaps in service connections to some sites, and schedule and operating conditions are not tailored to Heritage Area visitor needs.
This study was informed by the 2019 Baltimore Heritage Bus Tour Business Plan (the business plan), developed by the John Hopkins Carey Business School for BHNA. The business plan addressed a concept for a Baltimore Heritage Bus Tour (BHBT) to provide transportation to key historical tourist destinations, conducted a market analysis and financial projection, as well as identified and outlined key functions of the transit system to include organization and management, marketing/sales, service/product, funding, and next steps. The business plan envisioned the BHBT as a “hop-on, hop-off" tour circulator through key historical areas within the city.
The project team conducted a preliminary transit feasibility analysis and partner engagement for the implementation of a dedicated transit shuttle service or augmentation of current transit routes to connect the points of interest and communities within the BNHA and other sites of interest in the City of Baltimore, Maryland, which included:
The following key observations of existing transit services providing both water-based and land-based access were identified during the field investigations:
The project provided BNHA with further information, such as proposed shuttle route scenarios demonstrating how transit service might be integrated into a managed access program for BNHA, to support and inform future decision-making and next steps for partnering to implement the proposed service.
The report recommended that BNHA coordinate with the City of Baltimore Charm City Circulator to identify whether the existing service could accommodate a BNHA route that serves the needs of BNHA and visitors. If the Charm City Circulator is not a suitable option for implementing the service, BNHA could solicit a Request for Information (RFI) to identify a partner to own and operate the service. Once a partner is identified, BNHA and its partner will need to undertake a more detailed transit feasibility study to consider the specific requirements of the owner/operator and other factors.
The study identified several initiatives BNHA could start in the interim to include:
[1] Maps illustrating existing multimodal public transportation services within BNHA boundaries that further illuminate the context for a possible future shuttle service are included in the Multimodal Access Section of the Baltimore National Heritage Area (BNHA) Preliminary Transit Analysis and Partner Engagement Report (Figures 4 – 13, pgs. 9 – 24).
Fireworks have been synonymous with the July Fourth holiday since the late 1700s. While it’s not exactly “bombs bursting in air,” the pyrotechnics have become an essential celebratory display on our most patriotic summer nights.To help you decide where to spend your Independence Day, we’re rounding up some of the best places to see fireworks in spots around the state. While there are more events leading up to and following the holiday, of course, these are the celebrations on July Fourth that include the...
Fireworks have been synonymous with the July Fourth holiday since the late 1700s. While it’s not exactly “bombs bursting in air,” the pyrotechnics have become an essential celebratory display on our most patriotic summer nights.
To help you decide where to spend your Independence Day, we’re rounding up some of the best places to see fireworks in spots around the state. While there are more events leading up to and following the holiday, of course, these are the celebrations on July Fourth that include the epic sparklers and their best viewing spots.
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Head downtown to enjoy the annual fireworks show put on by the city. Per usual, Mayor Brandon Scott will kayak into the Inner Harbor to kick off the evening, which includes celebratory performances from local talent at the amphitheater.
When: 6-10 p.m.
Where: The Inner Harbor and Inner Harbor Amphitheater (East Pratt and Light streets)
Best view: From the Inner Harbor, Federal Hill and Harbor East.
The Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival will feature a variety of performances — from local to international artists — and an Independence Day drone show. Check out this map for more information on free parking and more.
When: 1-10 p.m. The drone show is expected to begin at 9:30 p.m.
Where: The festival takes place at Middle Branch Park (3301 Waterview Ave., Baltimore); the drone show launches from West Covington Park (101 W. Cromwell St., Baltimore).
Best view: Despite the two locations, the best place to enjoy the festival and watch the drone show is Middle Branch Park.
Catonsville High School hosts a Family Fun Fest that promises plenty of carnival-style food vendors, music by the band Crush and other events throughout the day. The night concludes with a fireworks show.
When: 6:30-10 p.m. The fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.
Where: Catonsville High School (421 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville)
Best view: Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to pick out their spots early at CHS.
Fullerton Park has food and music starting in the afternoon, followed by a nighttime fireworks show. Four different bands will play throughout the day while vendors serve ice cream, seafood, beer, wine and more.
When: The music begins at 2 p.m., and the fireworks go off at 9:15 p.m.
Best view: On the field of Fullerton Elementary School or from the park.
The Towson area July Fourth fireworks are a 50-year tradition put together by the community. The fireworks will be launched from the lower soccer field across from the Ravenwood shopping center.
When: Fireworks will be set off sometime between 9 and 9:30 p.m.
Best view: The official viewing area for the show is the upper field at Loch Raven Academy.
Celebrate Independence Day at the Downtown Columbia Lakefront with an event that features more than a dozen food trucks, live music and, of course, a fireworks show. The musical performances will be produced by the Merriweather Arts and Culture Center and include a variety of musical genres: contemporary, bluegrass, soul and dance among them.
When: Blankets can be put down as early as 3 p.m., but the festivities officially run 5-10 p.m., with fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
Where: The Columbia Lakefront (10275 Wincopin Circle, Columbia)
Best view: Try to arrive as early as you can at the Lakefront. Alternatively, the various parking garages nearby offer views of the fireworks show. Keep note, though, that the Whole Foods parking lot will close at 6 p.m. Check the official website for alternative parking options.
The waterfront in our state’s capital offers a fireworks display from a floating barge on the Severn River. The Independence Day parade starts beforehand at 6:30 p.m., and the city’s tourism website recommends picking your fireworks spot by 8 p.m.
When: 6:30-10 p.m.
Best view: There are multiple great viewing spots, including the Naval Academy bridge, Annapolis’ City Dock, and northeast of the Severn River, according to the site.
The Volunteer Fire Department in Upper Montgomery County launches fireworks for the community. The event costs $10 (cash only) per car to park, with the money going to their ongoing Fourth of July fireworks fund. All firefighters and EMTs are volunteering their time. Expect a handful of food vendors, but no alcohol is allowed.
When: Gates open at 5 p.m.
Where: The field at the intersection of Hughes Road and Sugarland Road.
Best view: They recommend setting your GPS to 15598 Hughes Road in Poolesville to find the best field from which to view the fireworks.
The South Germantown Recreational Park hosts Germantown Glory, their annual Independence Day event. Live music will feature the Central City Orchestra, and there will be food vendors. On-site parking is available, but pets and alcohol are prohibited.
When: Music begins at 7 p.m., and fireworks are expected to start at 9:15 p.m.
Where: South Germantown Recreational Park (17920 Germantown Park Drive, Germantown)
Best view: Bring chairs, blankets, and coolers to settle in at the park.
Rockville has its own fireworks show at King Farm’s Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park. Live music from Maryland-based cover band Vertigo Red starts at 7 p.m. There will be food vendors like Althea’s Almost Famous, but outside food is also allowed. For more information on free parking, check out their website.
When: 7 p.m., with fireworks starting at 9:15 p.m.
Where: Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park (1800 Piccard Drive, Rockville)
Best view: Bring your chairs and blankets to the park.
Ocean City will have two simultaneous fireworks shows: one at the boardwalk and another at Northside Park. The boardwalk area will have a fireworks show over the ocean, which also allows for boaters to enjoy the scene from the water. Meanwhile, Northside Park will have its own celebration for those without their sea legs. Both locations feature music starting at 8 p.m.
When: At both locations, DJs start playing at 8 p.m. and fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.
Where: The Boardwalk (698 N. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City) and Northside Park (200 125th St., Ocean City)
Best views: Northside Park or the beach at the Boardwalk.
Baker Park will rock out with two different music stages, food vendors, activities for kids and beer gardens. Check out their website for more details on entertainment and fun. The fireworks, shot from Parkway Elementary School, will end the day.
When: Noon to dusk
Where: Baker Park (121 N. Bentz St., Frederick) and Parkway Elementary School (300 Carroll Parkway, Frederick)
Best view: Frederick County provides a map of recommendations, which includes Fleming Avenue swimming pool area, the lawn of Frederick High School, and the Carillon Area of Baker Park. They note that areas like the band shell at Baker Park have an obstructed view.
The Carroll County Farm Museum hosts a day of festivities with the largest fireworks in the county. Admission is $5 per car. Expect tons of food vendors, tours of the farm and live music. Check their website for more details.
When: Gates open at 4 p.m., and fireworks are scheduled for sundown, approximately 9:30-10 p.m.
Where: Carroll County Farm Museum (500 S. Center St., Westminster)
Best views: On the grounds of the farm.
This article has been updated to correct the viewing information for the fireworks in Towson.
Adora Brown is the summer 2025 arts & culture intern. Adora recently graduated from Emerson College in Boston, where she studied journalism, nonprofit communications and American Sign Language.
A high-speed train would've linked Baltimore to DC in 15 minutes. The feds rejected the proposal, which also included a stop at BWI Airport.ODENTON, MD — A high-speed train will not be built between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. at this time.The federal government announced the news in a Monday notice, saying th...
ODENTON, MD — A high-speed train will not be built between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. at this time.
The federal government announced the news in a Monday notice, saying the rail line would likely disrupt federal property.
The feds worried that the train would affect Fort George G. Meade and the National Security Agency in Anne Arundel County. They were also concerned about NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and the USDA's research facilities in Prince George's County. The Patuxent Wildlife Refuge, which spans both counties, was another point of contention.
The train would have also traveled through a short stretch in southwestern Baltimore County before reaching Baltimore City. The Baltimore station would have been located near the Inner Harbor, the Baltimore Peninsula or Cherry Hill. The Washington Station would've been constructed in the NoMa or Mount Vernon Square neighborhoods.
A map of the proposed routes, named alternatives J and J1, is posted on page 81 of this study report.
The privately operated train was expected to zip by each site, traveling at 311 mph and whisking passengers between Washington and Charm City in 15 minutes with an intermediate stop underneath Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. Some sections were slated to be underground, while others would've been elevated.
Later extensions were planned to connect the nation's capital and New York City with a one-hour ride. Additional stops were planned for Wilmington, Delaware; Philadelphia International Airport; Philadelphia and Newark Liberty International Airport.
The train would've used magnets to levitate atop the tracks, letting it travel at high speeds thanks to the absence of friction. Dubbed the Superconducting Magnetic Levitation train, the railway was nicknamed the SCMAGLEV train for short.
Northeast Maglev called the decision a "missed opportunity of a generation to deploy the fastest and safest ground transportation system in the world." The company said the news "further cements America's transportation infrastructure technological inferiority."
"Deploying this existing, advanced technology, already operating in Japan, would address the transportation challenges facing the Northeast Corridor - the densest in the United States," Northeast Maglev said in a Monday statement. "The SCMAGLEV would have resulted in over $6 billion in private investment, created more than 160,000 jobs, and replaced 16 million car trips. With cars being the largest source of pollution in Maryland, significant air quality benefits would have been realized. Instead, the Washington, DC metro area will remain number one in the country for the worst traffic, delays, and congestion."
In an April trip to Japan, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore took a test ride on the MAGLEV train that inspired the Mid-Atlantic proposal.
"Strong public transportation infrastructure is key to connecting Marylanders from where they live to where opportunity lies," Moore said in a press release at the time. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to experience this incredible technology in person and are excited to learn more about its potential."
The project has been under discussion since 2016, but the environmental review has been paused twice. It has remained paused since 2021.
The Federal Railroad Administration announced that it will end its "involvement in the environmental review process," putting up a roadblock that prevents the project from proceeding.
The Railroad Administration said its decision to nix the project "does not preclude the future deployment of SCMAGLEV technology in the United States."
"FRA has concluded the Project, as planned, will result in significant, unresolvable impacts to federal agencies and federal property," Acting FRA Administrator Drew Feeley said in a Thursday letter first reviewed by Maryland Matters and later obtained independently by Patch. "In addition, given the substantial delay and cost overruns associated with the Project, FRA does not see a viable path to continue investment in the Project. Our understanding is that MDOT agrees with these conclusions and supports the termination of the Agreement."
The U.S. Department of Transportation previously estimated that the project would cost nearly $20 billion to build, Maryland Matters reported.
Northeast Maglev said it has invested nearly $158 million, representing 86% of the total investment in the project. That's $7 for each dollar of federal government investment. The State of Maryland did not invest a single dollar, Northeast Maglev said.
"It is our sincere hope that future leaders will recognize the promise of high-speed rail, the adoption of new technology, and the opportunity to reclaim America's transportation dominance to the benefit of its citizens," Northeast Maglev said. "While this decision is a setback, it is not the end. We remain committed to the promise of high-speed rail in the United States and will continue pushing forward to bring innovative, sustainable, and world-class transportation to the Northeast Corridor."
The Maryland Department of Transportation acknowledged the FRA's decision.
"MDOT understands that FRA's decision reflects the significant challenges posed by the project, including substantial impacts to federal agencies and federal property," then Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said in a Thursday letter obtained by Patch. "MDOT will comply with FRA's request to submit the final reports necessary to terminate and close out Cooperative Agreement No. FR-MPS-0002-16. Our team will coordinate with the FRA Project Manager to support that process moving forward. MDOT appreciates FRA's partnership in advancing rail infrastructure and safety improvements in the State of Maryland."
Wiedefeld's response to the FRA came on his last day at the helm of MDOT. Moore had previously announced that Wiedefeld would be leaving his post at the end of July.
Photos of Moore's ride aboard Japan's high-speed train are available here.
More information on the train's proposed operations is posted at northeastmaglev.com.
BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Teachers settled their pay dispute with the Baltimore County school board this week.Educators will get a raise, albeit a smaller one than they were initially promised.The Teachers Association of Baltimore County said it voted Tuesday to accept the 3.05% increase offered during mediation. TABCO said the county vowed in 2024 that educators would get a 5% raise this year."Our members know the sting of disrespect when their agreement is not followed," TABCO President Cindy Sexton said i...
BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — Teachers settled their pay dispute with the Baltimore County school board this week.
Educators will get a raise, albeit a smaller one than they were initially promised.
The Teachers Association of Baltimore County said it voted Tuesday to accept the 3.05% increase offered during mediation. TABCO said the county vowed in 2024 that educators would get a 5% raise this year.
"Our members know the sting of disrespect when their agreement is not followed," TABCO President Cindy Sexton said in a Wednesday press release announcing the agreement. "They know the frustration of losing colleagues at nearly 10% turnover a year, they see how this impacts students, they're not just going to take it anymore."
The teachers union begrudgingly took the deal in a tight budget year that has seen job and funding cuts.
"Our unwavering commitment to the education and well-being of our 110,000 students was at the center of our negotiations in 2023 and has remained true despite this extraordinarily challenging fiscal climate," Baltimore County Public Schools Superintendent Myriam Rogers said in a July 23 letter to staff. "As shared throughout the budget process in 2023 and 2024, BCPS was slated to see a significant increase in Blueprint dollars from the state for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Those additional Blueprint funds, strategic reductions in staffing and materials, and anticipated local and federal funding were to be used to fund our compensation packages. However, it became increasingly clear that uncertainty at the federal, state and local levels meant that we would need to approach the budget differently."
Sexton said the deal has a total cash value of roughly $26 million. She said that's nearly three times the $9 million that BCPS offered in May.
BCPS's four other employee unions accepted the offer this spring. The teachers were the only ones to reject it.
Reaching an impasse, TABCO voted to authorize "work to rule." This meant educators had their union's blessing to complete only the minimum amount of work required under their contracts. The negotiation tactic is meant to highlight how much work teachers do off the clock and beyond the purview of their direct job responsibilities.
Teachers protested in the rain, wrote thousands of letters and rallied outside the school board.
Under the ratified agreement, teachers will get a 1% cost-of-living adjustment effective on Sept. 20 to counter inflation.
TABCO said on New Year's Day 2026, "members who are not at top-of-scale will move one step on the wage scale and then gain the value of a second step through compression - effectively two steps."
In addition to these raises, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving will be a half-day remote professional development day and a half day off. One existing professional development day during the school year will be converted to a remote professional development day.
"We are not done. The third year of the contract is still there, in black and white," Sexton said, referring to the final year of a previously agreed-upon pay plan. "For our students, our families, and our profession, we're ready to fight for what we've been promised."
Rogers said she appreciates "the collaboration of all parties involved in the negotiations."
"This agreement reflects our commitment to providing competitive salaries for Team BCPS staff and to fiscal responsibility while fast forwarding student achievement," Rogers said. "Every member of Team BCPS plays a vital role in our efforts to continue the forward progress, growth and success of our students and system."
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