Governor Ehrlich Announces BPW Approval of $110,252 in Program Open Space Funds for Queen Anne’s and Caroline Counties
Grasonville Park expansion preserves woodland along Marshy Creek tributaries
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Restating his commitment to supporting parkland and conservation projects on the Eastern Shore, Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. today announced Board of Public Works approval of $110,252 in Program Open Space funds for Queen Anne’s and Caroline Counties.
“The funds approved today increase recreational opportunities, preserve habitat, protect woodland that filters runoff, and plan for responsible land use,” said Governor Ehrlich.
The $110,252 grant will fund two projects:
The Board approved $72,252 to cover most of the purchase price of 11 acres adjacent to Grasonville Park. This expansion of the park will allow a walking trail and playground to be added, thereby increasing recreational opportunities in the rapidly growing central portion of the county. This acquisition also prevents residential development and preserves the existing woodland, which serves as wildlife habitat and buffers tributaries flowing into Marshy Creek and the Chesapeake Bay.The Board approved $38,000 to cover the cost of preparing the Caroline County 2005 Land Preservation and Recreation Plan, a planning project required by state law.
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.