Union Knitting Mills Project Wins MEDA 2023 Economic Development Project Award
Earlier this month, the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) announced the winners of the 2023 MEDA Awards and one Frederick project received top honors. In the Economic Development Project category, Frederick’s Union Mills Knitting Project was named as the winner of the large community designation for its creative repurposing of a long-vacant building to help spur tourism and investment in Frederick, Maryland. Sponsored by Miles & Stockbridge P.C., the MEDA Awards recognize the people, programs, and projects bringing economic prosperity to Maryland.
The Union Knitting Mills Project is an $8 million adaptive reuse effort that transformed a 50,000-square-foot factory building into a vibrant economic hub and tourism destination. Throughout the renovation, the developer and owner, Douglas Development Corporation, displayed unique commitment to maintaining the original character of the century-old knitting mill while preparing it for modern tenants.
Today, the building is home to five businesses in a mix of both ground-floor retail uses and upper-level office spaces. These business tenants represent a range of industry sectors, including hospitality, breweries, tech, and healthcare. Collectively, these businesses have created more than 100 jobs.
The once-vacant property has become a key destination on the east-end of The City of Frederick’s award-winning Carroll Creek Park -- which draws more than 1 million visitors annually. The site even includes outdoor dining options with scenic views of kinetic art sculptures along Carroll Creek.
“The City was glad to be able to assist the project through rehabilitation tax credits, grants, permitting guidance, parkland use navigation, and tenant connections,” said Richard Griffin, Director of Economic Development. “These efforts, paired with the public investment of over $27 million in the Carroll Creek Park improvements, have been pivotal in realizing this major economic development success story for our community.”
Mayor Michael O’Conner shared, “Union Knitting Mill’s hip and historic vibe exemplifies our community’s commitment to honoring our past while building an exciting future. The City is proud of the transformation of this property, anchoring new economic development on Frederick's east side, and we are thrilled to see it recognized on a state-wide stage.”
The MEDA Awards will be formally presented at the Awards Banquet held during the MEDA Annual Conference in April.