Allegany County is preparing for its most ambitious housing development in over six decades. National homebuilder D.R. Horton has been selected to construct 65 new homes on the former Allegany High School site in Cumberland. The development will address the county's housing shortage and complement economic development efforts that are ongoing in Allegany County.
The project plans include a mix of townhomes, villas, and detached single-family homes that will be equipped with smart technology and sought-after amenities. Some of the planned features of the development include ADA-accessible sidewalks, off-street parking, and proximity to recreational areas to support residents of every age. Pricing for the townhomes is currently expected to start in the high-$100s, offering one of the most affordable new construction options in the state.
Bids for the site work were due in May, and the first tranche of homes is expected to be completed before year-end. After construction begins, D.R. Horton will adjust its construction pace to align with the cadence of home sales in the community.
“New housing of this caliber is truly what we need,” stated Jeffrey Barclay, Director of Allegany County Economic and Community Development (ACECD). “There hasn't been a housing development of this scale in our area in over 60-plus years. This project is a significant investment in Allegany County’s future that supports people who want to move here, as well as existing residents who want to age in place.”
Allegany County Commissioner Bill Atkinson is in full support of the proposed development plan. “This new development will bring much-needed, move-in-ready housing to an area that has not seen significant residential construction in decades,” he shared. “While housing does exist in the surrounding neighborhoods, it is predominantly aging stock that requires substantial renovation—an obstacle for many families seeking modern, efficient homes.”
The Allegany High School site was selected for its desirable views, connectivity to downtown, and proximity to the Great Allegany Passage Trail. Traditionally, communities with immediate access to trail systems improve the quality of life within a community, as they provide safe places to bike and walk, promote wellness, and connect people to essential services.
"We want to stimulate the housing market by creating an inventory of new homes that offer turnkey solutions for people who want to live here," said Adam Strott, Economic and Community Development Specialist for ACECD.
Creating middle-tier housing provides an upward path for growing families and provides entry-level homes for first-time buyers.
“This project is not just about new construction; it's about creating movement within our housing market,” Atkinson added. “Right now, many of our affordable homes are being occupied by families who could afford larger or more updated residences, but who remain in place simply because there are no better options available locally.”
To keep costs affordable for homeowners, a combination of state, federal, and local funding will cover the fees for site preparation, roads, utilities, and stormwater management.
“What makes this project unique is that the county is paying for the site work infrastructure,” said Nathan Price, Senior Project Manager for ACECD. “This approach significantly reduces development costs and allows us to offer these homes at more accessible price points.”
The project’s timing is critical, as Allegany County’s population has declined by 10% over the last 15 years, based on 2024 U.S. Census data, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating early retirements and workforce exits. Leaders believe that new housing is essential to reversing these trends.
“The project will provide a much-needed increase in the availability of quality housing options and help support population retention and growth,” explained Ken Tressler, Director of Administrative Services for the City of Cumberland. “The project will generate construction jobs, boost local spending, and expand the city and county's tax base. We are excited to work with the county to assist in bringing this project to fruition any way we can.”
Commissioner Atkinson shares Tressler’s enthusiasm, emphasizing the strategic importance of diverse housing options for the region's prosperity. "By expanding our housing options, we support both ends of the market, creating opportunity for current residents while opening the door to new talent and investment," stated Atkinson.
During each phase of the project, partners have worked diligently to pool resources and find solutions to support the community’s long-term goals.
“We appreciate the ongoing collaboration of our partners, which include D.R. Horton, our local real estate community, the City of Cumberland, and the Allegany County Board of Commissioners. "We have built genuine and valuable relationships, and we’re grateful for that” shared Barclay.
For more information on economic development initiatives in Allegany County, please visit our blog.
