Brunswick - The Next Comeback Kid

Today’s blog was written by John Dayton, Chair, Brunswick Economic Development Commission.

Brunswick is the next comeback kid. Just ten years ago, downtown Frederick was nothing like it is today. The “new” City of Brunswick Economic Development Commission is hard at work planning for our future. We are focused on using data and key performance indicators to set short term goals and long term goals. We are looking out to 2020 and beyond knowing that we need to build a solid foundation to achieve our long term goals.

We are currently developing itineraries or “loops” which include activities featuring Brunswick businesses and highlighting our beautiful natural outdoor assets. The creation of these loops will then be part of an overall marketing strategy lead by a marketing consulting company.

The EDC is also working on a number of new initiatives to connect with the local business community and other key stakeholders. We are working hard to strengthen relationships with other fantastic organizations like Main Street and GBACC to achieve our common goals. We are striving to understand what existing businesses need to be and stay successful as well as how to entice others to choose Brunswick. We have started advertising and “get to know” campaigns for businesses around town, planning initiatives to market commercial space around town, and looking for other gaps in the needs of our business community.

The City of Brunswick has a designated HUBZone area (Historically Underutilized Business), giving employers and residents in the area preference to federal contracting opportunities. Additionally, we have designated areas of the downtown as an Enterprise Zone - the designation allows tax credits on real property and income. Property owners receive a tax break on the assessed value of improved properties over a 10-year period, and employers may receive up to $6,000 in income tax credits per employee. These are just two of the “tools” we have to enable business in Brunswick - not to mention access to the MARC train, Community Legacy Grants, and the quality of life and commercial opportunities on the C&O towpath and Potomac River.

Our meetings are open and we always welcome feedback, participation, and any ideas from anyone from Brunswick or who might visit! As a volunteer based organization, we welcome any expertise - we don’t want to “reinvent the wheel.” We are excited about the future of Brunswick and we know you will be, too.

For more information about doing business in the City of Brunswick, visit www.brunswickmd.gov.