With 164 Jobs and $38.9 Million Economic Activity, Fort Ritchie Sees Tremendous Success and Announces Ambitious Future Plans

Cascade, Maryland – Ritchie Revival is set to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the redevelopment of Fort Ritchie on Friday, September 25, 2026, with a public celebration that will showcase the significant progress made at the former military installation and outline its future trajectory. The event will highlight the resurgence of the site through business growth, job creation, and community development, offering a glimpse into the next phase of its revitalization.

The anniversary festivities will commence at noon at Fort Ritchie, inviting the public to engage with the transformed site. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a “Passport Adventure,” exploring various businesses and attractions across the fort. Guided walking tours are scheduled to depart at 4 p.m., offering insights into the site’s history and current development. Information for the Passport Adventure, including passport pickup, will be available at The Top Secret Taproom, located at 14332 Barrick Ave. The celebration is co-sponsored by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce.

Concluding at 5 p.m. at The Top Secret Taproom, the event will feature remarks commemorating the five-year milestone. A new economic development report detailing the impact of the redevelopment will be released, and a prize drawing for Passport Adventure participants will take place. These remarks will also provide a preview of upcoming initiatives, including the restoration of a substantial historic building, the introduction of new employers and job opportunities, and the development of additional housing.

The economic development report, prepared by the Economic Research Center at Hagerstown Community College under the guidance of Professor Corey Stottlemyer, analyzes Fort Ritchie’s transformation since its acquisition by Cascade Properties LLC and Ritchie Revival in 2021. The study assesses the investment, employment, business activity, and broader economic implications stemming from the redevelopment efforts. The report indicates a significant shift in Fort Ritchie’s trajectory after more than two decades of stagnation following the Army’s departure. Notable achievements include the rehabilitation of historic structures, the return of businesses and residents, and a resurgence of economic activity that has fostered renewed optimism in the Cascade community.

Key findings from the report reveal substantial investment and widespread rehabilitation at Fort Ritchie. Approximately $27 million in public and private capital has been allocated since 2021, with private investment constituting the vast majority of this figure. Of the fort’s 126 buildings, an impressive 119 have been renovated and are now occupied. Employment at the property has seen a dramatic increase, growing from just 13 jobs in 2021 to approximately 164 jobs currently. Furthermore, tenant operations at Fort Ritchie are estimated to generate $38.9 million in economic activity for Washington County annually, a figure attributed to renovations undertaken by Ritchie Revival.

With most of Fort Ritchie’s historic buildings now revitalized and in use, the next phase of development is poised to build upon the established character and community spirit of the site. Future plans include the ambitious restoration of one of the fort’s largest remaining historic buildings into a signature hotel, marking the most significant restoration project undertaken at the property to date. Additionally, the site will welcome new employers to repurposed buildings, with expectations of creating hundreds of new jobs, alongside the development of thoughtfully planned housing options. Each of these forthcoming projects is designed to harmonize with the fort’s historic surroundings and preserve the unique community atmosphere that has been embraced by residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

“When we arrived five years ago, Fort Ritchie had been through more than two decades of disappointment, and many people had understandably lost hope that the property would ever come back,” said John Krumpotich, owner of Cascade Properties and founder of Ritchie Revival. “Today, the buildings are filled, businesses and families have returned, and the Fort is once again contributing jobs, investment and community life to Cascade. This anniversary belongs to everyone who believed in this place and helped create the momentum we are seeing today. With a signature hotel, new employers, hundreds of jobs and additional housing ahead – all consistent with the historic character of the Fort – the next chapter may be even more consequential than the first.”

For residents of Washington County and surrounding areas, the ongoing redevelopment of Fort Ritchie signifies a positive economic outlook. The infusion of private capital, the rehabilitation of historic buildings, and the substantial growth in local employment contribute to a revitalized local economy. The projected creation of hundreds of additional jobs and the development of new housing will offer further opportunities and enhance the community’s livability. The commitment to preserving the historic character of the site ensures that development will complement, rather than detract from, the unique charm of Cascade.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from Ritchie Revival.

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