The Chesapeake & Ohio National Historical Park’s new and improved headquarters is underway in Williamsport, Maryland.
The site of a former Miller Lumber Company has taken on a whole new look as construction crews work to complete the $15 million new headquarters for the Chesapeake & Ohio National Historical Park. This relocation site is expected to bring approximately 70 jobs to Williamsport.
Williamsport Headquarters
The project is being funded by the National Park Service (NPS), and Maryland Economic Development Corporation, with support from Washington County, Maryland. The National Park Service plans to move into the new headquarters shortly after the building’s completion in the late spring of 2021 and remain in a 30-year lease with the Maryland Economic Development Corporation through a cooperative management agreement.
Once completed, the Park’s new headquarters will enhance the visitor experience and increase Park Service presence in the area. Visitors will be able to see the historic house of Van Lear, a previous tavern and residence, which is being left standing.
Local visitors, school groups, and tourists will have access to educational tours, town history, and activities about the historical background of the C &O Canal. The new headquarters site lies adjacent to historical sites such as the Conococheague Aqueduct, the operational Railroad Lift Bridge, and Lockhouse 44.
The National Park Service and the State of Maryland are confident that moving the headquarters to Williamsport will increase pride and revenue throughout Williamsport. Tina Cappetta, Park Superintendent is looking forward to the new Park location: “The new headquarters building is on track for its spring completion, and we couldn’t be more excited to be relocating back to the Canal! It will be great to be so close to the Park, our visitors, and our neighbors again.”
