Cascade Properties has partnered with
Inch & Co. Development Group in the renovation and construction of the historic Fort Ritchie Army Base in Cascade, Maryland. Fort Ritchie Fort is central to Frederick, and Emmitsburg, Maryland, as well as Gettysburg and Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C. The base was in use throughout World War II and the Cold War, from 1926-1998, when it officially closed its doors. The US Army activated the Military Intelligence Training Center (MITC) on June 19, 1942, and trained 19,600 intelligence troops, including the Ritchie Boys.
On April 7th, 2021, John Krumpotich became the owner of Fort Ritchie and has expressed his plans to revive Ritchie and the Cascade community by bringing businesses, historic preservation, and housing to the former 500+/- acre Army Post. Krumpotich has stated that it is a ”paramount priority” to rehabilitate the stone structures on-site to maintain its historic integrity while bringing each building back to life.” Furthermore, this plan will support economic development. Washington County Board of County Commissioners President Jeff Cline says it best, “Today, more than ever the development of the Fort Ritchie property is prominent in the revitalization of Cascade and surrounding area. Once part of our economic past, Fort Ritchie is now the lead for economic development into the future for Washington County.”
The first phase begins with the cosmetic renovation of 58 units. This development, named Whistling Ridge, is nestled in the foot of the mountains and is currently being renovated by Inch & Co. Construction. These homes are planned to be ready for lease come late Fall 2021. Prices for these 3–4-bedroom duplexes will begin at $1200 a month and will be managed by Inch & Co. Property Management.
Future plans for Fort Ritchie will include 250 new townhomes and 60 condominiums, as well as 103 single-family homes. If you’re looking to just visit, Fort Ritchie will also offer lodging. You will be able to choose from 17 of the newly renovated Barracks and check-in will take place at the base’s well-known castle. The remaining 18 Barracks are planned to become additional retail spaces.
When it comes to building an active community, the need for work and play is within walking distance. Opportunities to kayak, paddleboard, hike, and even get married surround Fort Ritchie. Throughout the community, there will be more than 50,000 sqft of office space and more than 150,000 sqft of retail space. Talk of a local brewery is already in the works and there are plans for a local restaurant, coffee shop, art gallery, and clothing boutique. Hopes for a self-sustaining community are on the horizon and are also expected to include a medical facility, charter school, and a farmers’ market.
Join Fort Ritchie in their upcoming July 17th Fireworks Show!
Interested in buying, renting, or leasing, we’d love to hear from you. Inquiries can be sent to Heather Saylor at
[email protected].
Contact:
Cambria Bailey
Marketing Director at Inch & Co.