Cascade Properties and Ritchie Revival have been diving deep into the renovation of the Historic Fort Ritchie Army Post in Cascade, Maryland. Fort Ritchie located in Washington County, Maryland and is central to Frederick, and Emmitsburg, Maryland, as well as Gettysburg and Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. Washington D.C. is approximately 75 minutes away. The base was in used from 1926-1998 as a Maryland National Guard and US Army reservation and activated the Military Intelligence Training Center (MITC) on June 19, 1942, and trained 19,600 intelligence troops, known as 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 has been completed with the cosmetic renovation of 58 units. This development, named Whistling Ridge, is nestled in the foot of the mountains and what was once abandoned military housing is now an active yet quiet community. Future plans for Fort Ritchie will include 250 new townhomes and 60 condominiums. 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.
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