Governor O'Malley Announces BPW Approval Of Local Recreational Projects In Anne Arundel County

964 Projects Funded Since 2007

Annapolis, Md. (March 9, 2011) — Governor Martin O’Malley today announced Board of Public Works (BPW) approval of recreational projects in Anne Arundel County through local-side Program Open Space.

“As the weather gets warmer, we are reminded of the great opportunities for Maryland children and families to get outside,” said Governor O’Malley. “Projects such as this one are expanding these opportunities in our communities.”

Anne Arundel County will receive $2.1 million to acquire 54 acres of land on the Broadneck Peninsula. The property features 650 feet of waterfront on the Magothy River, a 2-acre tidal pond, 43 acres of mature forest, a 2-acre historic homestead site and 7 acres of open meadow. In addition to providing public recreation opportunities and access to the Magothy River, this acquisition will conserve the historic Spriggs Farm.

Under the leadership of Governor O’Malley, the Board of Public Works has approved funding for 964 recreational projects, including Community Parks & Playgrounds, totaling over $286 million through local-side Program Open Space since 2007.

A video showing the direct benefits of Program Open Space can be viewed here.

Since 2007, Governor O'Malley and the BPW preserved more than 33,131 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 354,174 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 is composed of Governor O’Malley (chair), 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.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages nearly one-half million 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 11 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