Governor O’Malley Announces BPW Approval For Parks And Recreational Projects In Four Counties
Protection for Wildlife Habitats, Funding for New Parks and Playground Are OK’d

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Annapolis, Md. — Governor Martin O’Malley today announced Board of Public Works approval of local Program Open Space projects in four counties, enhancing recreational opportunities and preserving environmentally sensitive land for the use and enjoyment of working families across Maryland.

“We understand how important it is to the quality of life that we so cherish in Maryland that our hardworking families have access to quality recreational opportunities,” Governor O’Malley said. “Through these projects, we are enhancing our parks and recreational facilities in communities throughout our state.”

The board approved funding for the following:

Anne Arundel County will receive $385,000 to install new artificial turf at North County, Annapolis, and Arundel high schools.

Calvert County will receive $108,245 to help offset the acquisition of more than 28 acres near the Prince Frederick town center for a future community aquatic center.

Cecil County will receive $16,972 to acquire 101 acres to establish the county’s first regional park about halfway between the towns of North East and Rising Sun.

Worcester County will receive $23,648 to offset expansion costs of the Northside Park building in Ocean City.

Since 2007, Governor O'Malley and the BPW have preserved more than 8,807 acres of natural areas for public recreation and watershed and wildlife protection across Maryland. Since 1969, Program Open Space has provided funding for acquisition of 326,280 acres for open space and recreation areas.

The money comes from a percentage of the real estate transfer tax and is used for local and state parks throughout Maryland. Most Maryland residents live within 15 minutes of an open space or recreational area funded by Program Open Space.

The three-member Board of Public Works, chaired by Governor O’Malley, is comprised of Treasurer Nancy Kopp and Comptroller Peter Franchot. The BPW is authorized by the General Assembly to approve major construction and consultant contracts, equipment purchases, property transactions and other procurement actions.

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November 5, 2008

Contact: Wiley Halll 410-260-8002 office I 410-507-7526 cell whall@dnr.state.md.us

Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 449,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 12 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov.