FREDERICK, Md. – County Executive Jessica Fitzwater announced today the establishment of a groundbreaking $110 million Community Benefit Agreement aimed at enhancing the lives of residents in Adamstown and throughout Frederick County. This agreement requires Catellus, the master developer of the Frederick Digital Campus, to implement significant sustainability measures while providing substantial community investments.
Under the terms of the agreement, Catellus will reduce the square footage of its data center development by nearly 20 percent and cut potable water usage by 80 percent. Additionally, the development will include the creation of 433 acres designated as nature reserve, aligning with the county’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
“This agreement reduces the impact of already approved data center development and secures unprecedented investments in the community,” said County Executive Fitzwater. “This is good, responsive government. This is accountability. This is what the people of Frederick County expect and deserve.” The community benefits outlined in the agreement include $30 million for renovations to Carroll Manor Elementary School, $40 million for a community center and recreational space, and $14.5 million for workforce development training and technical education, among other initiatives.
These investments are a direct response to the findings of the 2024 Data Center Workgroup and feedback collected from community listening sessions held earlier this year. They represent a commitment to addressing residents’ concerns and fostering a collaborative approach to development in the region.
As part of the process, Catellus has submitted an application for a Development Rights and Responsibilities Agreement, which will be subject to public review and comment until September 10. Details of the application are available online at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/DataCenters. Residents are encouraged to share their feedback on this significant initiative aimed at enhancing community resources and sustainability in Frederick County.
Read the original article at Frederick County Government