About Us
The City of Frederick Department of Economic Development strives to increase economic opportunity for Frederick residents through job creation, revitalization and reinvestment. This mission is achieved through four strategic priorities:
- Job Creation (business attraction, retention and expansion)
- Business infrastructure advocacy
- Downtown Revitalization
- Corridor Revitalization
Job Creation
Business attraction and retention is a core function of DED. Attraction is pursued through partnerships with Frederick County Office of Economic Development and the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development. DED strives to promote Frederick as an ideal business location within the State, region and along the East Coast. Outreach efforts include regional and national trade shows targeted at bioscience and technology; targeted regional advertising that focuses on bioscience, technology, manufacturing and site selection consultants; and participation in and sponsorship of key industry events hosted by groups such as the Tech Council of Maryland/MdBio and Maryland/DC Chapter of NAIOP.
Business retention and expansion is DED’s most important aspect of job creation. Studies by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) show that 65-80% of new jobs in a community are created by the existing businesses. As an example – if every business in the City added just one new job a year that would be 3,450 new jobs annually! Retention and expansion efforts include business retention visits; attendance at local business events such as the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce activities; local advertising and trade shows; and support for expanding businesses as they navigate the development review and permit process.
Another strategy for strengthening the Frederick economy is through home-grown businesses. Entrepreneurs and small business start-ups are a growing source of job and wealth creation in Frederick. DED achieves these efforts in several ways, including support of the Frederick Innovative Technology Center (FITCI), the first business incubator in Frederick County, and participation in the Entrepreneur Support Network.
Business Infrastructure Advocacy
Strong and reliable infrastructure is key for growing a strong business community. The City of Frederick is fortunate to have high quality water, access to high-speed internet and fiber optics, and a good transportation network. As the City grows, infrastructure upgrades and improvements must continue in order to maintain the superb quality of life in the community.
DED advocates for key infrastructure and transportation upgrades, and participates in the planning process for future projects. The current transportation focus includes the new East Street interchange on I-70, completion of the center section of Monocacy Boulevard, a new above-grade interchange at Monocacy Boulevard on Rt. 15, and corridor improvements along the 180/351 corridor.
Downtown Revitalization
Downtown Frederick is the hub of government, arts, culture and entertainment in Frederick County. Since the devastating flood of 1976, which left more than 100 acres of downtown under water, revitalization efforts have sought to rejuvenate the vibrancy and economic health of downtown. In 2001, downtown Frederick was designated a Main Street Community through the National Trust for Historic Preservation. By 2005, downtown was recognized as a Great American Main Street, celebrating the successful revitalization efforts of the past 30 years. Through historic preservation, adaptive reuse, redevelopment and infill development, Downtown Frederick thrives.
Downtown Frederick Partnership is the City’s official Main Street organization. Both through funding and close collaboration, the City supports downtown revitalization in conjunction with the Partnership, the Tourism Council of Frederick County and other community efforts. More information is available by clicking here.
Corridor Revitalization
The primary roadways that lead into Frederick from the interstates and highways have traditionally been attractive and vibrant gateway corridors. In an effort to strengthen and beautify these corridors and gateways, DED takes on corridor revitalization projects and neighborhood planning efforts. In particular, W. Patrick Street (Golden Mile), E. Patrick Street (I-70 entrance), and W. Jefferson Street, among others, constitute primary gateway corridors. For more information on Golden Mile initiatives click here.
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