Governor Ehrlich Announces BPW Approval Of $42,760 In Program Open Space Funds For Montgomery County

Governor Ehrlich Announces BPW Approval Of $42,760 In Program Open Space Funds For Montgomery County
Funding allows park expansion and improvements

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Emphasizing his commitment to supporting park projects, Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. today announced Board of Public Works approval of $42,760 in Program Open Space funds for expanding a popular regional park and improving facilities at two other parks in Montgomery County. The funds are committed to the county through Program Open Space, which is administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

“I am pleased to support these three park projects in Montgomery County,” said Governor Ehrlich. “Each improves recreational opportunities, and the acquisition for Black Hill Regional Park contributes to watershed protection as well.”

The Board approved $29,500 to acquire 5.3 acres for expanding Black Hill Regional Park. The property forms an integral part of the Ten Mile Creek Greenway and helps protect the watershed of Little Seneca Lake, which serves as an emergency water supply. The acquisition also protects wildlife habitat and increases opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking and nature study.

Today’s Program Open Space approvals also fund two projects in Kensington:

For Flinn Park, the Board approved $8,551 to improve landscaping and pathways and to install game tables and wheelchair-accessible picnic benches.

For Reinhardt Park, the Board approved $4,709 to expand the playground area, relocate swing sets, and add two swing-set bays.

DNR’s Program Open Space is a nationally recognized program that provides funding for Maryland’s state and local parks and conservation areas. More than 4,500 county and municipal park and conservation projects have been completed through the program, improving the quality of life for millions of Marylanders.