BUSINESS
The major expansion project includes a mile of new and upgraded paths and park improvements and investments that are bringing new opportunities to Frederick .
Carroll Creek was once one of Downtown Frederick ’ s largest liabilities , bringing devastating floodwaters into the city ’ s main commercial district through the 1970s . Over 30 years and six mayoral administrations , Carroll Creek Park was developed as a flood control project and urban park . Today , floodwaters are under control and the 1.3-mile park is home to residents , restaurants , businesses and community gathering spaces .
“ While providing an obvious recreational and cultural resource , Carroll Creek Park also serves as an economic development catalyst ,” said Richard Griffin , director of Economic Development for The City of Frederick .
The first phase of construction brought $ 150 million in private investment , 1,500 jobs , 550,000 square feet of office and retail space , and 300 new residential units . Improvements in phase 2 of the Carroll Creek Park include a mile of new and upgraded multi-use paths , landscaping , planters , lighting , water features and crosswalk improvements . The work is primarily between Bentz and South Market streets and between the Delaplaine Arts Center and East Patrick Street .
“ More than $ 100 million in new and renovated private construction is planned along the new park / path sections , which will eventually result in hundreds of new jobs and increased state and local tax revenue ,” Griffin said .
The Union Mills building , historically home of Union Manufacturing Co ., at 340 E . Patrick Street , is one of the first major private redevelopment sites in phase 2 of the project . It includes a substantial renovation and addition to the building . The space will be home to the expanding Frederick company Regent Education . Retail and commercial space is also planned .
“ The Carroll Creek expansion is directly related to the redevelopment of the Union Mills site ,” Griffin said . “ We expect to see more investment and projects of this scope and scale to develop along the creek .”
New sections of Carroll Creek Park are slated to begin opening as early as fall 2015 . For updates and announcements on the project , follow the City of Frederick ’ s Department of Economic Development on Facebook : www . facebook . com / frederickded .
Photos courtesy City of Frederick ’ s Department of Economic Development
26 FREDERICK COUNTY GUIDE | SUMMER 2015