The Golden Mile Alliance represents, advocates for, and actively engages the business, residential and real estate community along the Golden Mile. Their mission is to drive the Golden Mile area to be a welcoming, economically strong, and desirable commercial and residential community. The GMA achieves its mission through economic development activities to support businesses and residential communities so they can continue to thrive. From top-notch businesses and offices to family-friendly neighborhoods and parks, their goal is to highlight and support the great purpose the Golden Mile holds for our city.
A Conversation with Chris McDonald, Executive Director
Tell us your business or organization origin story
In 2001 the city initiated a task force to address some of the concerns about economic resources for the Golden Mile and how its future growth could look. From there, former Mayor Randy McClement formed the Golden Mile Alliance Organizing Committee in 2011 with the purpose of formalizing a network of residents, business owners and property owners/managers. In 2012, the Golden Mile Alliance was founded as a derivative and was incorporated as a 501c3 non-profit. In April of 2024, the organization took its next step forward by hiring an Executive Director, Christopher McDonald, to help perform the tasks of the Golden Mile Alliance volunteer board on a daily basis.
What do you like most about being a business or organization located in Frederick County?
Frederick County has such a rich history and the Golden Mile has played a huge role in that – from being known as the National Road with ties back to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars to the economic engine it is today that provides over 30% of the tax base in Frederick City and nearly 25% of the tax base in Frederick County
What makes your organization unique?
The Golden Mile Alliance represents the most socio-economic diverse community in the county but also the most ethnically diverse residential population with over 50 different dialects spoken in the district.
What do you want your organization to be known for?
We represent and bring awareness to the district, for residents, businesses and the real estate community, highlighting the unique diversity to Frederick County. We are also hosting the first ever Golden Mile International Festival on January 25th inside of Warehouse Cinemas.
How can the community support you?
What do you do best?
Is there anything else exciting about your business that you want the Chamber membership to know about?
Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs and initiatives, please visit our website.