Governor O’Malley Announces BPW Approval of Parks And Recreational Projects In Six Counties

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Annapolis (March  4, 2009) – Governor Martin O’Malley today announced Board of Public Works approval of local-side Program Open Space funding for local parks in six counties.

“We are committed to protecting our priorities in Maryland including bringing quality, outdoor recreational opportunities to children and families across our State,” said Governor O’Malley. “By using environmentally-sound practices for these Program Open Space projects, we can ensure that Maryland continues to be Smart, Green and Growing.”

Allegany County will receive $6,600 to develop an environmentally-conscious pervious parking area for Lonaconing Little League Park, the only little league field in the town.

Cecil County will receive $136,526.57 to continue to improve the parking areas at the 32-acre Conowingo Park.  

Frederick County will receive $95,000 to install energy efficient lighting that minimizes light pollution and improve landscaping at Hill Street Park in Frederick.  

Prince George’s County will receive $30,000 to improve water quality of an existing pond at the Roland B. Sweitzer Community Park in Laurel. The surrounding areas will also be re-engineered to better provide for visitors wishing to view the pond.

Wicomico County will receive $13,500 to develop a multi-purpose field, walking trail and landscaping at the 85-acre Cedar Hill Park in Bivalve.

Worcester County will receive $79,862 to install energy-efficient outdoor lighting on a softball field at Newtown Park in Pocomoke City.

Since 2007, Governor O'Malley and the BPW have preserved more than 21,148 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 340,860 acres for open space and recreation areas. Most Maryland residents live within 15 minutes of an open space or recreational area funded 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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March 4, 2009

Contact: Kara Turner 410-260-8018 office I 443-980-2599 cell katurner@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