Limiting Data Center Development
The news: Frederick County is listening to our community’s concerns about Critical Digital Infrastructure, also known as data centers. We are approaching data center development the Frederick County way – with strong regulations to limit growth and prevent the sprawl that happened in Northern Virginia.
Our approach: Frederick County is a leader in regulating the data center industry. In 2022, we passed a law to establish guardrails for the industry and limit land zoned for industrial use. In 2025, we updated that law to increase protections for our community. We are continuing to fight data center sprawl by:
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Cutting in half the number of acres currently available for data center development;
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Limiting data center development to less than 1% of the County’s total landmass;
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Concentrating data center development to the area in and around the Eastalco site north of Adamstown where infrastructure exists and development is already occurring; and
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Preserving five acres of farmland for every new acre turned over to data center development.
Why it matters: As a result, data centers are the most regulated industry in Frederick County. Our actions will protect our quality of life and provide a clear roadmap for responsible development – and generate new investments, economic development, and good-paying jobs for people in our community.
Get involved: You are invited to attend an upcoming community meeting to learn more and share feedback. The meeting will be held on Thursday, September 25 at 6:00 p.m. in the church hall of St. Joseph on Carrollton Manor, located at 5843 Manor Woods Road, Adamstown. Registration is not required, but attendees are encouraged to RSVP at www.PublicInput.com/DataCenters.
More details: There are plenty of opportunities for additional public input. Visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/DataCenters to learn how you can make your voice heard.
New Move Mobile to Bring Resources Directly to the Community
The news: The Division of Aging and Independence recently launched Frederick County’s new Move Mobile. The Move Mobile is a decommissioned ambulance donated by Frederick County Fire and Rescue Services that will bring resources and support directly to older adults, caregivers, veterans, and individuals with disabilities throughout the county.
Why it matters: The launch of the Move Mobile is a groundbreaking initiative that brings services directly into the community, meeting people where they are. This mobile unit will help reach people throughout Frederick County who may not have transportation or access to resources where they live.
More details: The Move Mobile will begin visiting communities across Frederick County in the coming months, with its first stop scheduled for Monday, November 3 at Bell Court in Woodsboro. A full schedule of stops will be available on the Division of Aging and Independence’s website at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/DAI.
Rose Hill Manor Park Carriage Museum
The news: The Division of Parks and Recreation recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Carriage Museum at Rose Hill Manor Park in Frederick. The 6,000-square-foot, single-story building will store and display antique carriages and include space for classrooms, restrooms, and storage.
Why it matters: This project is about preserving Frederick County’s history and making it accessible for generations to come.The new Carriage Museum will strengthen opportunities for education and community engagement while honoring the stories that shaped our county.
More details: The new facility will replace the original carriage museum, which opened in 1976. The project is funded through the State Capital Budget and the Frederick County Capital Budget. Construction is scheduled to finish in August 2026. For updates on the project, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/CarriageMuseum.
Rural Historic Preservation Grant Program
The news: If you own a historic property located in an unincorporated area of Frederick County, you may be eligible to apply for the Rural Historic Preservation Grant Program. Grant applications will be accepted until November 30, 2025. Award notifications will be made in early Spring 2026.
Why it matters: Frederick County has long been committed to preserving our rich historic resources and landmarks and this program is one way we help preserve our history.
More details: There will be public workshops to provide information about the program and the application process. To learn more about the program or register for a workshop, please visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/HPGrant.
Pilot Bus Service to Cunningham Falls State Park
The news: You can now use Transit Services of Frederick County to visit the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park in Thurmont thanks to a newly launched pilot bus stop location. The pilot service will run through Saturday, September 20, 2025.
Why it matters: Access to parks and recreation should be available to everyone. This pilot program supports the Livable Frederick vision of creating a more connected community, where land use, transportation, and public spaces work together to improve quality of life.
More details: This stop is now included on the Emmitsburg/Thurmont Shuttle, with three weekday trips and two Saturday trips passing by the park. Transit is free to ride, but riders will need to cover the park’s entrance fee when they arrive. For more information, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Transit.
September is Preparedness Month
The news: September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder to take time to prepare for the unexpected. The Division of Emergency Management is encouraging people and businesses to do just one thing to be more prepared for emergencies, such as signing up for emergency alerts or making sure you have extra batteries for your flashlight.
Why it matters: Preparing for emergencies can feel like an overwhelming task, one that’s easy to keep putting off until “tomorrow.” But being prepared isn’t about building a bunker or stocking up on a year’s worth of canned goods. Preparedness is about taking small practical actions to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
More details: For more information, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/Prepared2025. To sign up for emergency alerts, visit www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/AlertFC.
Events & Activities
Parks and Recreation Activities: Our division of Parks and Recreation offers a wide range of activities and events for the whole family. Whether you are looking to improve your skills or learn something new, Parks and Rec has activities for all ages. Browse and register for activities on the Parks and Rec website.
Frederick County Public Libraries: Our public libraries offer a variety of enriching events and programs for kids, teens, and adults. From story times to crafts to educational workshops, there’s something for everyone. Learn more on the Frederick County Libraries website.
50+ Community Centers: Our 50+ Community Centers offer a variety of fitness classes, social groups, special events. Learn more on our 50+ Community Centers webpage.
Frederick County Workforce Services: Workforce Services offers a variety of in-person and virtual classes and workshops to help people prepare for a new career. Learn more on the Frederick County Workforce Services event page.
Office of Economic Development: The Office of Economic Development (OED) is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment in Frederick County and offers a variety of events and activities designed to support local businesses and entrepreneurs. From networking events to business development workshops, OED provides valuable resources to help businesses grow and succeed. See what’s happening on the OED events calendar.
Board & Commissions - Volunteers Needed
Are you interested in getting more involved in Frederick County? Visit our Boards and Commission webpage to learn how you can serve. Our Boards and Commissions rely on the expertise of community members to support, develop, and advise on key issues that impact industries across the County. For more information, please email fcgboards@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
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