OFFICE OF THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

County Executive Announces $110 Million Community Benefit Agreement Related to the Frederick Digital Campus

FREDERICK, Md. – Today, County Executive Jessica Fitzwater announced an agreement that will provide $110 million in developer-funded benefits to the residents of Adamstown and Frederick County and require Catellus, the master developer of the Frederick Digital Campus, to take meaningful steps to make the campus more sustainable and less reliant on County resources.

Catellus will reduce the square footage of data center development by nearly 20 percent, reduce potable water usage by 80 percent, and provide 433 acres of nature reserve at the campus.

“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 benefit agreement will directly provide:

  • $30 million for renovations to Carroll Manor Elementary School.
  • $40 million for a community center and recreational space.
  • $14.5 million for a workforce development training center and career and technical education.
  • $10.5 million for agricultural land preservation.
  • $10 million for perimeter berming, planting, and trails.
  • $5 million for a community solar project, which will reduce energy bills for Adamstown residents.
  • $1 million for a new fire engine for the Carroll Manor Volunteer Fire Company. These investments are a direct result of the 2024 Data Center Workgroup final report, feedback provided at community listening sessions earlier this year, and concerns voiced by residents throughout this public process.

Catellus’ application for a Development Rights and Responsibilities Agreement begins a process that will be public, transparent, and accountable to the community.

Frederick County: Rich History, Bright Future Winchester Hall ● 12 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701 ● 301-600-1100 ● Fax 301-600-1050 www.FrederickCountyMD.gov

The application, which clearly defines Catellus’ responsibilities to the County and the community, is available online at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/DataCenters. Public comment is encouraged and will be accepted until September 10.

The County Executive’s announcement can be viewed on Frederick County’s YouTube channel, @FrederickCountyMD.

CONTACT: Vivian Laxton Director Office of Communications and Public Engagement 301-600-1315

Frederick County, Maryland does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, familial status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or source of income.

Frederick County: Rich History, Bright Future Winchester Hall ● 12 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701 ● 301-600-1100 ● Fax 301-600-1050 www.FrederickCountyMD.gov