Construction is underway for Maryland’s first Deaf Community Center - and it’s going to be an amazing addition to the Frederick Community!
In 2024, the site at 720 N. East Street in the City of Frederick was acquired by the Maryland Deaf Community Center. The site originally had a two-story house and older warehouse building that once housed Avery Clark Produce Company. The existing buildings were demolished early this year to prepare the site for future construction.
The Center will be the first in the State of Maryland to provide a space for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community to interact with each other as well as with the hearing community. This space will also allow MDCC to provide educational, cultural and social activities and programs as well as connect with the hearing population. The Center will also focus on the physical health and emotional well-being for the Deaf and hard of hearing populations.
Maryland Deaf Community Center site located at 720 N. East Street, in the City of Frederick.
“ MDCC will be a one stop center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people to get referrals for Deaf friendly medical, housing, mental health agencies, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and other necessary information. It will also provide outreach to the general population to encourage connection and communication as well as classes to help them communicate.”
According to MDCC, the total anticipated capital expenditure for the project will be $6.2 million. The bulk of project funding included grants from the State of Maryland, Frederick County Government and the City of Frederick. The Maryland Deaf Community Center is fundraising the final $1.2 Million needed to complete the center. The organization will host a golf tournament in the fall and a Charity Gala on November 8th. Additionally, the Maryland Deaf Community Center is seeking assistance from grant writers and other businesses wishing to host events in support of future programming at the center.
“The Center will be a deaf friendly space where everyone can see each other. We aim to have a multipurpose gym to bring both hearing and deaf community together. The public is encouraged to get involved with the organization and support this endeavor,” shared Lori Bonheyo.
The new facility was designed by Zavos Architecture and Design with Civil Engineering services provided by Kimbley-Horn. Waynesboro Construction Company is the general contractor for the 11,088 square feet center that is slated for completion in December 2025.
Learn more about the Maryland Deaf Community Center.
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