Rising Up: Downtown Frederick to Welcome New Food Hall

Downtown Frederick Partnership, McClintock Distilling and the City of Frederick are excited to announce the development of a new small-scale food hall in Downtown Frederick. This traditional food hall will feature four food stalls ranging from about 200 to 350 square feet, a bar and a market stall, located in a 6,000 square foot lower-level space within a historic commercial building owned by McClintock Distilling. Strategically positioned near East Patrick Street, Carroll Creek Linear Park, the future Downtown Hotel & Conference Center, the Police Headquarters and newly planned housing developments, the food hall is set to become a key attraction for both locals and visitors in the area.

The goal of this initiative is to provide an accessible entry point for early-stage culinary entrepreneurs into Downtown Frederick’s competitive commercial real estate market while also expanding and diversifying business ownership and offerings in the community. By providing shared space and lower startup costs compared to traditional standalone storefronts, the food hall model makes entrepreneurship more accessible to a wider range of small businesses. The food hall will strengthen downtown’s overall dining scene, driving foot traffic and supporting existing businesses.

“The Partnership is thrilled to collaborate with McClintock Distilling and the City of Frederick to support entry stage culinary entrepreneurs” said Kara Norman, Executive Director of Downtown Frederick Partnership. “This project will foster a more diverse and inclusive small business community in Downtown Frederick. By making entrepreneurship more accessible, we’re not just enhancing our local dining scene—we’re strengthening the economic landscape of our community.”

The Partnership is committed to strengthening Downtown Frederick’s business ecosystem. This project aligns with a key goal in the organization’s 2025 Strategic Plan and Equitable Business Development Strategy by cultivating entrepreneurship, growing businesses, creating jobs and increasing access to resources.

Recognizing that access to affordable commercial space and startup capital are key hurdles for many aspiring business owners, the Partnership pursued funding opportunities that would help lower these obstacles. By securing funds to help offset buildout costs, the Partnership is able to work with McClintock Distilling (who will operate the food hall) to guarantee that future tenants have access to reduced rent and/or upfront financial assistance. This partnership will help to lower startup costs and provide a more inclusive pathway for small-scale entrepreneurs.

“This project is a perfect example of what happens when we work together to lower the barriers to business ownership,” said Mayor Michael O’Connor. “By partnering with Downtown Frederick Partnership and McClintock Distilling, we’re creating opportunities for entrepreneurs who might otherwise be locked out of traditional commercial spaces. It's about making Frederick a place where good ideas and hard work have a real chance to thrive.”

The project is supported by a $300,000 grant from Project Restore 2.0 – a unique, one-time grant opportunity by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) that revitalizes communities by addressing vacant buildings, supporting small businesses, creating jobs and improving commercial corridors. Grant funding restrictions—which prohibit funds from being used for property acquisition or new construction on vacant lots—narrowed the selection process, and the food hall site emerged as a strategic choice. Additionally, due to the project's scale and potential impact, the City of Frederick sought funding from DHCD’s Strategic Demolition Fund and was ultimately awarded $200,000 to assist with the building’s rehabilitation.

Renovation costs are expected to exceed $1,000,000, including expenses for architectural design, engineering and food hall consultation. Construction is scheduled to begin in late summer 2025, with the food hall expected to be operational within the next year. The application process for food hall tenants will launch in spring 2025. McClintock Distilling and the Partnership will engage several key community partners to assist with tenant recruitment and selection.

Braeden Bumpers, Co-Founder of McClintock Distilling, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “We are very excited to be working on this project with Downtown Frederick Partnership and the City. As a small family-owned business, we are proud to work on a project that gives opportunities to other new entrepreneurs to bring new concepts and flavors to Downtown Frederick. We hope to extend and continue the values of innovation, quality and community engagement to the food hall concept and hope it becomes a mainstay of the downtown experience.”

Both the Partnership and McClintock Distilling bring extensive experience and expertise to the project. The McClintock team has previously renovated two historic properties near the project site, which now house McClintock Distilling and McClintock’s Back Bar. McClintock will own and manage the food hall and oversee the design and construction process, hiring architects, engineers and contractors to complete the project.

More than just a dining destination, the food hall is poised to become a hub for community engagement, a driver of local economic growth and a catalyst for new restaurant concepts that will enhance Downtown Frederick’s culinary vibrancy.

For more about Downtown Frederick Partnership’s initiatives, visit downtownfrederick.org.

Downtown Frederick Partnership:

Founded in 1990 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Downtown Frederick Partnership has managed Downtown Frederick’s Main Street program since designation in 2001. Downtown Frederick Partnership works to enhance, promote and preserve the vitality, livability and diversity of Downtown Frederick — a national Main Street community.

City of Frederick Department of Economic Development:

The City of Frederick Department of Economic Development is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and sustainable economy by supporting businesses, attracting investment and enhancing workforce development. Through strategic initiatives, partnerships, and resources, the department works to create a business-friendly environment that encourages innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth in the City of Frederick.

McClintock Distilling:

Founded in 2016, McClintock Distilling is a craft distillery located in Downtown Frederick, Maryland. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, McClintock Distilling produces a range of spirits using locally sourced ingredients and traditional methods. The distillery is dedicated to sustainability, community engagement and crafting exceptional spirits that reflect the rich heritage of the region.

Contact:
Feby Emelio
Communications Manager, Downtown Frederick Partnership
301.698.8118
feby@downtownfrederick.org

Rising Up: Frederick's New VFW Building Construction Underway

Established as a gathering place for veterans 90 years ago, the John R. Webb V.F.W. Post 3285 is looking forward to the future as its new building is under construction in Frederick, MD. This new facility will include 6,000 square foot first floor and a 3,000 square foot basement, with plans to fully develop the basement into the West Park Veterans Service Center in the future. Additionally, the first floor will feature a dedicated Service Office near the front door to assist with VA claims, ensuring veterans have easy access to crucial support. Additionally, the facility will include two large meeting rooms, a spacious dining area, and a future kitchen, fostering community and camaraderie.

Post Commander Danny Rodriguez recently shared, “This new VFW building will be the first ground-up post constructed in over two decades—not just in Maryland, but across the United States. It’s being built to serve all veterans in Frederick and the surrounding counties, not only as a place for camaraderie, but also as the home of the only VFW-accredited service officer outside the federal building in Baltimore. We’re committed to partnering with other nonprofits to offer meaningful programs, skill-building opportunities, and community service initiatives. “

“This post will be more than just a building—it will be a beacon for what VFWs across the country can aspire to be. ”

— Danny Rodriguez, Commander, John R. Webb Post 3285

Total project costs are estimated at $3.2 million, a testament to the scale of the endeavor. Funding has been secured through a combination of sources, demonstrating a strong commitment from various stakeholders to this post’s mission. Fortunately, the post secured a $1 million HUD grant by former Congressman David Trone and a $500,000 state grant by Maryland State Delegates Ken Kerr, Karen Simpson and Kris Fair. An additional $1 million in funding was provided by the Frederick VFW's own resources. Woodsboro Bank is providing some project financing.

The VFW began actively planning for the new facility in July 2021 and the organization anticipates construction will be completed in September 2025. The VFW currently employs five paid staff members and anticipates expanding its team upon the building's completion, with plans to hire bartenders and facilities staff to effectively manage the new space. The post membership also provides a large amount of support to keep the organization running with 16 officers and appointed positions conducting operations.

Contour Construction LLC is the general contractor and Zavos Architecture+Design, LLC, provided the architectural design, ensuring the facility meets the needs of the veterans it will serve.

Learn about how you can support the new VFW Post project in Frederick here.

Project funding included $500,000 grant provided by the Maryland State Legislature.

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Would you like to see your Frederick city commercial project featured in an upcoming blog with the City of Frederick Department of Economic Development? Email project details to businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov for consideration or call 301.600.6360.

Rising Up: New Class A Industrial Space Coming to Frederick City

Nestled behind the Frederick Fairgrounds, a campus of dated manufacturing buildings once stood at 550 Highland Street. The antiquated buildings were recently demolished to make way for a new Class A industrial complex within city limits. Known as Highland Logistics Center, the development will consist of the construction of two single-story logistics warehouse buildings comprising approximately 190,000 and 260,000 square feet of space, respectively.

The new buildings will feature 32-foot clear ceiling heights, 52-foot column spacing, 60-foot speed bays, and generous truck courts. The surface parking lot includes 470 parking spaces and 32 trailer parking spaces at each building as additional space suitable for Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS), which is considered among the fastest-growing and in-need real estate asset classes.

““Frederick is a target market that we’ve had our eye on for some time. The convenient location, diverse and dynamic workforce, and general quality of life are all reasons that May Riegler, as local real estate developers, wanted to find a project in Frederick. With Highland Logistics Center we were able to purchase a very well-located large parcel of land that had an existing building that was functionally obsolete. After helping to relocate the last few remaining tenants, we are now poised to transform the site into a 2-building, modern logistics park that will house local and regional businesses for years to come.” ”

— Eric May, Co-Founder, May Riegler Properties

The project developer, May Riegler Properties selected this Frederick industrial projects for a variety of reasons. As one of Maryland’s fastest growing locations, Frederick is intersected by five interstate and national highways that offer access to approximately one-third of the population of the United States within a one-day truck drive. The site is just 30 miles from the I-81/I-70 intersection in Hagerstown, and just over 40 miles from the I-95/MD Route 32 intersection in Savage, Maryland. This location is approximately 40 miles from Washington, D.C., 45 miles from Baltimore, and 50 miles or less from all three international airports including BWI, IAD, and DCA.

To learn more about Highland Logistics Center, click here.

If you have an interesting project rising up in the City of Frederick, please reach out to our economic development team with your project information for consideration as a future featured article. Call us at 301.600.6360 or email businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov .

The Banyan – Bringing a Trifecta of Food, Music & Experiences to Downtown

Frederick has been dreaming of a place like this for decades, and now the Banyan project is underway at 216 East Patrick Street. Bringing this project to life are husband and wife duo, Dan and Staci Caiola, who are both trained chefs by trade. Named after beloved shade trees you often spot in the Caribbean and Key West, the Banyan will bring amazing new opportunities to Downtown Frederick as a 17,000+ square foot, three-story building converts to a live-music, event venue and restaurant.

Current front of the new Banyan building

Our City Economic Development team recently toured the Banyan to learn about the extensive building renovations and to learn about the new addition that will be constructed. The ground level space will house a restaurant with a speakeasy flair – including private dining options and specially stocked libations. The second-floor venue space will provide an industrial party flair to your special event or weddings with a seating capacity of approximately 275. The space also will provide options for regional touring acts to perform music in a concert setting with state-of-the-art sound and lighting and green room. The building addition will expand the current footprint to include an elevator, impressive commercial kitchen, and more!

And to top off the project, the Banyan will include Frederick’s the largest roof-top bar in downtown - providing incredible views of the city’s historic vista. With eclectic furnishings and comfortable community and lounge areas, this open-air rooftop bar will also feature live music as well as its very own “food truck” dubbed “The Hangry Rooster.” You’ll be able to rent the area for public or private events. Stay tuned! You won’t want to miss when they “lift” this special showstopper feature to the rooftop later this year.

The $6 million adaptive reuse project is located adjacent to the new Downtown Hotel and Conference Center site and the former Trolley Building which is now being renovated for office and retail space. The Banyan’s ground floor restaurant and event venue is slated to open first, tentatively first quarter 2026. The rooftop bar will open next spring!

Keep the Banyan on your radar! It will be the kind of place that you come to enjoy the food and music and stay for the experience! The Banyan will truly be a Frederick trifecta!

Rendering of the completed Banyan project

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The City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development features upcoming projects as part of its blog.  If you have an interesting project in the pipeline, reach out to our team about a future feature article.  Email - businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov

JLG Industries to Expand Operations in the City of Frederick’s Riverside Research Park

The City of Frederick and Governor Wes Moore, are pleased to announce that JLG Industries, a division of Oshkosh Corporation and a leading global producer of mobile elevating work platforms and telehandlers, is expanding its presence to Frederick. JLG Industries will be opening a new satellite office and research and development center to support ongoing business growth, drive innovation, and meet the needs of both employees and customers.  

Aerial View of JLG facility in Riverside Research Park

This new facility will span 113,000 square feet within the Riverside Research Park in the City of Frederick. Once completed, it will feature state-of-the-art areas for product development and equipment testing, as well as new workspaces designed for future expansion. The building will also include large, flexible spaces suitable for company meetings and accommodating multiple customer visits at the same time.  

“I am proud of our City Economic Development team for helping to secure the JLG investment in facilities and jobs here in Frederick.” Said Mayor Michael O’Connor.  “I am confident that Frederick residents and indeed the regional workforce will take advantage of the family-supporting jobs that JLG is creating here.” 

“The jobs and tax base created by JLG here in the City of Frederick at Riverside Research Park - Progress Labs are substantial and the City, County, and State teams will work hard to retain and expand the company for years to come,” says Richard Griffin, the Director of the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development. “The Matan Company has developed Riverside Research Park into a world-class business center alongside Riverside Business Park developed by St. Johns Properties.   Other adjacent tenants include Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Charles River Labs, Precision for Medicine, Biofacura and more.”  

JLG industries new expansion in Frederick at Riverside Research Park.

To support the project, the Maryland Department of Commerce is working to approve a $500,000 conditional loan through Advantage Maryland. Additionally, the Frederick County Office of Economic Development plans to cover up to $50,000 in permitting or project fees. As the project moves forward, JLG is also expected to be eligible for additional state, county and city incentives, including up to $75,000 through the City of Frederick’s Commercial & Industrial Tax Credit program. 

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Exploring a new site in Maryland? Expanding your business footprint in Frederick? Reach out to the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development regarding additional questions about programs and resources available at the city, county and state for qualified project. 301.600.6360 / businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov

The Next Chapter: Business Closings & Retirements Lead to New Beginnings

46 years, 1M margaritas, thousands of employees and countless celebrations and memories!

The City of Frederick is home to 4,000 businesses, some that are on the early stages of their business journey and many which have been staples for decades. In 2024, we said goodbye to a few longtime companies that significantly impacted the business landscape in the city. While we are sad to see them go, we know their next chapter is just around the corner for these locations. Join us as we take a look at these legacy businesses and explore what’s next for these city business sites.

LaPaz Mexican Restaurant

After 46 years of serving over a million margaritas and their infamous chips and salsa, as well as being a Downtown Frederick staple, owner Graham Baker sold the restaurant and building. New owner Thomas Zipellii will be bringing an Italian themed restaurant concept to this location on Carroll Creek with renovations to begin this year. Chef/Owner Zipelli owns Salt & Vine Trattoria and Wine Bar in Olney, Maryland.

La Paz shared on social media, “We’ve been a part of celebrations and gatherings of all kinds, and so many of you have become family.” The post continued, “We’ve have had over one thousand employees throughout the years. We are so thankful and proud to have had the opportunity to be a part of your lives for so long.” With gratitude for La Paz’s contribution to the food and beverage scene, we wish Graham and team a happy retirement and look forward to the building’s next chapter.

Former LaPaz staff from throughout the years say goodbye!

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Firestone’s

Firestone’s has been a staple in Downtown Frederick for decades. When restaurateur Kimball “Kim” Firestone passed away late last year, the family successor group, the Wasley Family, that operated Firestone's Culinary Tavern for many years alongside Firestone, was determined to see that the legacy of the restaurant and buildings would be carried on by the next operators.

The family has placed the buildings on the market for sale this month. Located at 105-115 N. Market Street, the portfolio includes separate two- and four-story buildings containing approximately 15,000 square feet of which also housed Sidecar Bar and Market on Market, respectively a cocktail bar and a boutique market and wine shop. A specialized Food & Beverage team within MacKenzie Retail has been tapped to handle the disposition with Henry Deford, Tim Harrington, and Corey Caputo are handling the sale.

Marketing Brochure for the property sale of former Firestone’s assemblage of properties: click here.

Photo Credit: Mackenzie Commercial

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Wag’s Restaurant & Bar

As former owner of Wag’s, John Wagner, moves into the next phase of his story, we give him thanks and celebrate the future of the best burgers in town, “8 steps below the competition.”

New co-owners Carlo Serio and Dave Schmidt share, “We really couldn't imagine Frederick without Wag's. Everyone we know has a Wag's story. Lunch with grandparents, burgers after school, or making a bunch of new friends during happy hour. We are so honored to be trusted to keep Wag's a part of the City for another 43 years. Preserving everything that makes Wag's so special was the entire goal of the transition. There was a team in place that had been through it all, some with decades of time working at Wag's. Most important to us was that everyone kept their job and we didn't close down at all for the team. It hasn't all been easy, but we are so excited to see what the future holds for Wag's. Come down and share a meal with us, you might see what we're cooking up. Portobello philly, a smash burger or two, and maybe even bringing that famous happy hour to Sundays. We'll see you at Wag's!”

We are so happy that Frederick’s tastebuds will still be able to enjoy those yummy Wag’s burgers & fries, and we look forward to witnessing the creation of some new Frederick menu traditions.

“We are so honored to be trusted to keep Wag’s a part of the City for another 43 years. Preserving everything that makes Wag’s so special was the entire goal of the transition.”

— Carlo Serio & Dave Schmidt

The next chapter for Wag’s Restaurant in Downtown Frederick

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Sir Speedy

Coming to the end of a wonderful journey, our neighbors and friends over at Sir Speedy have turned out the lights. What a fantastic run they have had serving Frederick ! Congrats to Rick Simon and the team for nearly 38 years serving the printing and copying needs of Frederick!

Click here to learn about business locations at Everyredy Square & Shab Row.

Located in Eveready Square, Sir Speedy closed at the end of 2024 after nearly 38 years in business.

Pasta Pallette

After nearly 10 years of selling pasta to Frederick's foodies, it's time for the owners to start the next chapter of life. With retirement on the horizon, they are slowing the daily pace, traveling the open road, and visiting new places. From their social media, “We have loved getting to know you and sharing amazing pastas with you. Over the years this little ten-foot-wide shop has filled our lives with excitement and anticipation for the future. Now the future is here and it's time to move on…”

Thank you for being part of the Downtown Frederick scene for so many years!

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Are you looking to open a new business in the City of Frederick? Reach out today to learn more about opportunities to create Frederick’s next legacy businesses. Call the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development at 301.600.6360 or email businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov to begin your business journey.

Groundbreaking Held in Downtown Frederick for Future Downtown Hotel and Conference Center

Governor Wes Moore recently joined City officials and staff to celebrate a significant milestone, the Downtown Hotel and Conference Center project!
This transformative development will bring new opportunities for tourism, business, and economic growth, creating a vibrant hub in the heart of our City. The new full-service hotel will be an anchor on world-class Carroll Creek Park in the heart of Downtown.

Project Scope:
• 208 Room -Marriott Branded Full-Service/Upper Upscale Hotel
• 21,210 SF Conference Center (ballrooms, pre-function, and breakout space)
• 253 On Site Parking Spaces (227 Garage/26 Surface)
• 4 Food & Beverage Outlets (rooftop, terrace, coffee, grab-n-go)
• 2,678 SF Retail Space
• Renovated historic Trolley Building and adjacent Eagles Building

December 19th groundbreaking of Frederick Downtown Hotel & Conference Center including demolition of former Frederick News Post press room.

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2025 with completion date anticipated of 2027.