The city planning commission approved the project's site plan this week, representing what some hope will contribute to a revitalization of Frederick 's busy shopping corridor.

"We call it the 'Golden Mile Gateway.' That's something we've been hoping would happen," said planning commission member Gary Brooks at Monday's meeting.

The project will include a 16,861-square-foot shopping center and a 3,194-square-foot, free-standing bank structure.

"It is the kind of project the public's looking for to give a bright new face to the Golden Mile," said Henry Forster, vice president of Clarksburg-based Core Development Group Inc.

The development group bought the 2.7-acre site five years ago, after the state police moved its barrack to the Frederick County Law Enforcement Center.

Forster declined to name any potential tenants at the shopping center.

"At the moment we don't have any deals we're in a position to announce to the public," he said.

The intersection where the property is situated is one of the busiest in the city. The developer will need to work with the State Highway Administration to improve the crossroads.

The improvements would include a median in Baughman's Lane and additional turn lanes.

Mayor Jeff Holtzinger said the traffic situation would be difficult for any developer to address.

"That one site is not going to make every improvement that needs to happen," he said. "I think they made the best of a difficult situation."

He hopes the shopping center will increase commerce along the ailing stretch of U.S. 40.

"You just hope everybody along the corridor will do better," he said.

Post your comments » Round 2: Snow expected to fall today, Wednesday Fast on the heels of the largest 24-hour snowfall to hit the Frederick County since 1983, meteorologists are predicting another round of heavy snow and wind to hit today. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning Monday afternoon for the area, including Frederick County, and said 10 to 20 inches of snow is possible by Wednesday night. Weather-related closings, delays A list follows of weather-related closings and cancellations for this week. Fire and police blotter Police search for robber School closures cause makeup schedule revision Even though Frederick County Public Schools are closed today -- using the sixth snow day this school year -- the school system will not hold school on the Monday Presidents Day holiday as the first scheduled snow makeup day. Crowds pay respect to fallen marine Even U.S. Marines couldn't hold back tears Monday at the viewing of their colleague, Sgt. David Smith. The procession to the Frederick Christian Fellowship Church was led by Frederick County Sheriff's deputies. Dressed in full military regalia, Marines carried Smith's casket into the church followed by family members as more Marines stood at attention.