BALTIMORE, MD (August 22, 2012) – The Maryland Board of Public Works approved $1.5 million in grants today to protect drinking water and reduce pollution by upgrading water supply systems and sewage lines. The Board is composed of Governor Martin O’Malley, Treasurer Nancy K. Kopp and Comptroller Peter Franchot.

“Projects such as these are an important part of our effort to improve Maryland waterways, including the Chesapeake Bay,” said Governor O’Malley. “These projects reduce pollution and protect the environment and public health while creating jobs for more Marylanders.”

The following projects were approved today:

Railroad Avenue Combined Sewer Overflow and Water Main Replacement projects – Caroline County

A $1,137,500 Chesapeake Bay Water Quality Projects grant to the Town of Federalsburg will help fund the engineering, design and construction of sanitary and stormwater sewer lines to separate the combined sanitary/stormwater sewer system in Federalsburg. The project will eliminate combined sewer overflows, which pollute waters with elevated levels of bacteria. It will also reduce peak flows at the Town’s wastewater treatment plant during storms. A $225,536 capital construction grant to the Town will help fund its Railroad Avenue Water Main Replacement project, which will improve the water supply system.

Pittsville Water Treatment Plant Filters and Controls Upgrade Phase II project – Wicomico County

A $190,000 Water Supply Financial Assistance Program grant to the Town of Pittsville will help fund improvements to the Pittsville Water Treatment Plant. The media used for filtration needs to be replaced. The project also includes an upgrade of plant controls and expansion and rehabilitation of its sludge drying beds.

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