Governor Awards Millions In Public Boating Access Grants
Anne Arundel and Wicomico counties benefit from large funding awards
ANNAPOLIS — Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. today awarded $11.9 million in grants and funding approved during the past legislative session for 111 Local and State Waterway Improvement Fund Projects statewide. Projects include dredging recreational boating channels in Wicomico County, constructing public boat ramps and piers, funding local fire-rescue boats in Anne Arundel County, installing marine sewage pumpout stations, and other boating related activities. Funding was also included for repairing public boating facilities damaged during Hurricane Isabel.
Recreational Boating is a $2 billion dollar industry in the State, according to a study completed by the University of Maryland Sea Grant Program. "Boating is a multi-billion dollar industry in Maryland and has my full support," said Governor Ehrlich. "These projects make it easier to enjoy Maryland’s waterways in a safe and environmentally-friendly manner."
All projects are funded through the State Waterway Improvement Fund, the revenues of which are derived from the 5% excise tax that is paid when a boat is titled in Maryland as well as a small percentage of the state motor fuel tax. Projects are managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Waterway Improvement Program, in cooperation with Federal, State, and Local agencies.
"The Department of Natural Resources is grateful to the Governor and General Assembly for recognizing and supporting our boating industry and public boating access facilities", said DNR Secretary C. Ronald Franks. "Boating is a major form of recreation in Maryland and provides a great opportunity for our citizens to enjoy the great outdoors."
The Waterway Improvement Fund was established in 1966 and has funded over 3,000 projects throughout the state, including 300 public boating access facilities, more than 400 navigation projects and marine sewage pumpout stations, numerous fire-rescue boats, and other activities that support the general boating public.
Review the list of projects receiving funds by county.
Posted May 24, 2004