Beyond the Basics:
Beyond the Basics: How Rowan is Investing in Frederick County
As part of our commitment to transparency, we have launched a program for Frederick County residents to learn about our projects and connect directly with our project team.
Quick Background
Rowan Digital Infrastructure received unanimous county approval for our first data center project in January 2024, which is now under construction. We then announced two additional projects in May. All three are on industrial land zoned for data center use, and do not require significant transmission infrastructure to be built.
You can see a comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions on our project website: https://www.rowanfrederick.com/faqs.
Op-ed: “Maryland would be foolish not to embrace data centers”
An op-ed in The Baltimore Sun by William Yull, executive director of the Maryland chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association, highlighted the vital role data centers play in building Maryland’s economic future — and highlighted Rowan’s projects specifically.
As Yull noted, “Data centers are more than just tech hubs — they’re drivers of Maryland’s economic resilience, workforce development, and community sustainability.”
Rowan’s Frederick Projects are projected to contribute $19 million annually in tax revenue to the county, providing direct benefits to schools, public services, and infrastructure while easing the tax burden on residents. Yull emphasized how projects like these are shaping the future of Maryland: “For Marylanders, this means upgraded schools, better public amenities, and improved quality of life.”
At Rowan, we’re committed to working together with local organizations, skilled tradespeople, and community leaders to ensure our projects leave a lasting, positive impact. Together, we’re creating a stronger Maryland — starting in Frederick County.
Op-ed: “Bring union jobs back to Frederick”
In a separate op-ed in the Frederick News-Post by Michael McHale, business manager of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 24, shared a reflection on the evolution of Frederick’s workforce and the opportunities brought by Rowan’s Frederick Projects.
McHale described the redevelopment of the former Alcoa site as a “second chance” for the community, bringing union jobs that offer fair wages, safe working conditions, and career pathways for skilled tradespeople.
“With the prospect of Rowan’s future developments, Frederick II and III, the momentum is only growing,” McHale wrote. “These aren’t just numbers or projects; they’re the beginnings of real opportunities for our members — opportunities for new apprentices, young workers, and experienced electricians alike.”
Supporting STEM Education at Carroll Manor Elementary
Rowan is proud to support the launch of a new STEM center in partnership with Frederick County Public Schools.
Our support for the STEM center aims to inspire local students to explore careers in STEM fields, helping them develop the skills needed for the growing digital infrastructure industry. By investing in education, we are not only empowering students, but also supporting local families and contributing to the long-term prosperity of Frederick County.
This partnership is just the beginning. Rowan looks forward to collaborating with educators to provide mentorship, hands-on learning, and career readiness programs that will help students build a brighter future right here at home. In fact, we’re working with Frederick Community College on an apprenticeship program that will soon provide students with on-the-job training at our data center campuses.
Thank you to the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and Frederick County Public Schools for the opportunity to partner on the new STEM Center at Carroll Manor Elementary and allow us to invest in the future of our community.
Supporting Affordable Workforce Housing for Frederick Families
Rowan understands that strong communities need more than just jobs—we need safe and affordable homes, too.
That’s why we are partnering with Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County to build afford-able workforce housing units at the West All Saints Street Project. Rowan is immensely proud to be a founding member of the Carter Club, which recognizes individuals and organizations that contribute $10,000 or more annually.
By partnering closely with Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County, we are helping to ensure that local families can thrive alongside the economic growth Rowan is bringing to Frederick County. Rowan team members from our construction and economic development and external affairs teams volunteered to support a paving project in front of the new housing units under construction. Click the button below to view our recap video:
Maryland Tech Council Releases Independent Economic Impact Analysis for Rowan’s Three Frederick Projects
A recent study commissioned by the Maryland Tech Council highlights the significant economic impact Rowan’s approved and proposed projects would bring to Frederick County, Maryland.
The construction of Rowan Frederick I, II, and III data centers is expected to generate more than $2.2 billion in statewide economic activity and create more than 15,500 jobs, along with $1 billion in labor income over the two-plus year duration. These projects will also result in an estimated $7.3 million in Frederick County tax revenues during the construction phase, not including permitting and impact fees, and more than $57 million in state-level tax revenues, largely driven by increased sales tax receipts.
Once operational, the facilities are expected to support over $346 million in statewide economic activity each year, creating 1,350 jobs across the state and generating approximately $19 million in annual tax revenue for Frederick County and $39 million for Maryland.
These findings underscore Rowan’s role as a major economic driver, supporting local development and bolstering public revenues that will support shared priorities like education, infrastructure, and emergency response.
Welcoming Ron Cramer: A Local Leader Dedicated to Frederick’s Future
We are excited to welcome Ron Cramer as Rowan’s new Community Affairs Specialist. A lifelong Frederick County resident and seasoned community leader, Ron brings decades of experience in fostering local connections and championing initiatives that uplift the region. From his roots on a Frederick County dairy farm to his leadership roles at Habitat for Humanity, Ron’s dedication to strengthening communities aligns perfectly with Rowan’s mission.
His passion for sustainable growth and investment in education, like Rowan’s pledge to fund a STEM Center at Carroll Manor Elementary, reflects our shared vision for a vibrant and inclusive future.
Looking Forward
At Rowan Digital Infrastructure, community engagement drives our commitment to responsible development. In Frederick County, we are proud to set the standard for collaborative projects, building strong relationships with local partners, prioritizing open communication, and ensuring our efforts create lasting positive impacts for the region.
Recently, Rowan had the privilege of presenting at the Rotary Club of Frederick, where Tim Alborg, our Director of Government and Community Affairs, shared how Rowan is leading the way in digital infrastructure development with high standards of sustainability and community benefits. We are grateful to local leaders and organizations like the Rotary Club of Frederick for their collaboration as we work together to bring meaningful investment and opportunities to Frederick County.
Rowan is also honored to be the presenting sponsor of the 2024 YMCA Santa Run 5K/10K and 1-Mile Elf Run/Walk. Proceeds benefit the YMCA of Frederick County’s Annual Campaign, supporting programs like Pedaling for Parkinson’s and Rock Steady Boxing for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.
In the spirit of giving, Rowan is also proud to support the Salvation Army this holiday season with donations that help provide food, shelter, and essential services to Frederick County residents in need. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such vital community efforts.
Reach out to our project team any time if you’d like to understand more about our approach to digital infrastructure development, or if you have specific questions related to our projects in Frederick County.