Frederick Secures $110M Community Benefits Agreement for Data Center Campus
Frederick County has secured a Community Benefits Agreement with Catellus for the Frederick Digital Campus, totaling over $110 million in developer-funded community investments. The agreement also includes significant changes to the already-approved data center development, such as a nearly 20% reduction in planned development and an 80% cut in potable water use. This initiative follows public concerns and recommendations from a data center workgroup, with a formal public review process for a Development Rights and Responsibilities Agreement currently underway.
Frederick County, Maryland, has announced a Community Benefits Agreement with Catellus, the master developer for the Frederick Digital Campus, valued at over $110 million. The agreement, announced by County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, aims to mitigate the impact of the already-approved data center development on surrounding communities while securing substantial investments.
Key provisions of the agreement include a nearly 20% reduction in planned data center development by Catellus, specifically a decrease of approximately 3.3 million square feet. The developer also committed to cutting potable water consumption by 80% once its reclaimed water system becomes operational and preserving hundreds of acres at the site. County Executive Fitzwater praised the agreement as a demonstration of responsive government and accountability.
The developer-funded community investments are earmarked for various projects: $30 million for Carroll Manor Elementary School renovations, $40 million for a new community center and recreational space, $14.5 million for workforce development and technical education, and $10.5 million for agricultural land preservation. Additionally, $10 million is allocated for perimeter berming, planting, and trails, $5 million for a community solar project benefiting Adamstown residents, and $1 million for a new fire engine for the Carroll Manor Volunteer Fire Company.
These investments complement the estimated $215 million in annual tax and fee revenue and 9,800 ongoing jobs the completed campus is projected to generate. The agreement stems from recommendations by the 2024 Data Center Workgroup and community input. Catellus has now applied for a Development Rights and Responsibilities Agreement, initiating a formal public review process, with public comments accepted through September 10.