This Monday, April 14 at 6PM, the City of Frederick Planning Commission will review final site plans for Lots 4 and 6 of the Brickworks development. While growth and revitalization are important to East Frederick, Lot 4 and 6’s current proposal does not reflect the thoughtful, pedestrian-focused design our community deserves—especially for such a critical gateway into historic Downtown, Frederick.
What’s Proposed for Lot 4?
The developer is requesting approval to construct a 76,045 sq. ft shopping center, including:
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A Whole Foods grocery store
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Three multi-tenant retail buildings
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One restaurant pad site (Pad Site 1) with a drive-through
This development would sit at the intersection of Monocacy Blvd. and East St., a key entrance into the city. At previous workshops, Planning Commissioners clearly expressed concern about the suburban, car-centric design of two drive-through pad sites—especially along Monocacy Boulevard. Two drive-throughs not only conflict with the community’s vision for Downtown but also increase traffic and create safety and accessibility challenges for pedestrians and cyclists. While the developer has removed one drive-through from the current proposal, they have indicated their intention to submit another final site plan application for the second drive-through once a tenant has been secured.
The Commission emphasized that this area should serve as a walkable extension of downtown, inviting residents and visitors alike into the city’s historic core. But instead of building something aligned with that vision, the current plan prioritizes drive-throughs and parking over pedestrian experience and community character.
Lot 4 Staff Report: https://cityoffrederick.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=12&event_id=4186&meta_id=178511
What About Lot 6?
Lot 6 is proposed as a 3–5 story multi-family residential building with 340 units on a 4.5-acre site. The long, uninterrupted apartment blocks on Lot 6 would limit direct access between future residents and nearby retail, forcing pedestrians and cyclists to detour onto Monocacy Blvd. or Brickworks Street.
Rather than prioritizing a massive, single-building design, the developer could improve connectivity and walkability by breaking up the building mass and incorporating public access points through the site. This is yet another example of how big-box-style development undermines a walkable urban fabric, making car travel the default—even for nearby homes. It’s a missed opportunity to build something that truly supports a livable, people-first East Frederick.
Lot 6 Staff Report: https://cityoffrederick.granicus.com/MetaViewer.php?view_id=12&event_id=4186&meta_id=178495
For the full Planning Commission agenda and additional Brickworks materials, visit: https://cityoffrederick.granicus.com/GeneratedAgendaViewer.php?view_id=12&event_id=4186
Help Us Advocate for a Better Frederick
We believe that gateway development should set the tone for the city—welcoming, walkable, and reflective of Frederick’s unique identity. The current Lot 4 and 6 proposals do not live up to that standard.
Here’s how you can help:
Attend the Planning Commission Meeting and Submit Public Comment
City Hall (101 N. Court St.)
Monday, April 14 at 6:00 PM
💻 Or watch online
✉️ Submit Public Comment Directly to Planning Staff – Use Our Template to Get Started!
To: preppert@cityoffrederickmd.gov
Subject: Please Reject Drive-Thrus at Brickworks — We Deserve a Pedestrian-Friendly
Gateway
Dear Ms. Reppert,
As a Frederick resident and someone who cares deeply about the future of East Frederick, I am writing to share my concerns about the proposed final site plans for Brickworks Lots 4 and 6. While I understand the desire to bring new amenities and housing to this area, I am strongly opposed to any drive-thru development along Monocacy Boulevard — especially at this key gateway into Downtown Frederick.
Drive-thrus do not align with the vision for a walkable, vibrant, and people-friendly East Frederick. They encourage car-centric design, increase traffic, and create safety and accessibility challenges for pedestrians and cyclists. Monocacy Boulevard should not become another strip of fast food and drive-thru lanes — especially when this area has so much potential to become a thriving, mixed-use neighborhood connected to the heart of Downtown. I appreciate that one drive-thru has been removed for now — but the applicant’s intention to pursue it later is troubling. I urge you to reject any plans that leave the door open for future drive-thrus at this location.
Please prioritize good urban design, walkability, and the long-term vision for East Frederick over short-term convenience. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the entrance to our city — let’s get it right.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address — optional]