BALTIMORE, MD (November 2, 2011) - The Maryland Board of Public Works approved more than $47 million in grants to reduce pollution and improve water quality by upgrading wastewater treatment plants. The Board is composed of Governor Martin O’Malley, Treasurer Nancy K. Kopp, and Comptroller Peter Franchot.

"These projects significantly reduce nutrient pollution, improve our waterways and infrastructure, protect public health, and create jobs for our families," said Governor O'Malley. "Together, we can ensure that our Bay remains vibrant and healthy for our children and theirs."

The following projects were approved today in the following locations:

Western Branch Wastewater Treatment Plant Enhanced Nutrient Removal Upgrade – Prince George’s County

A $38,109,000 Bay Restoration Fund grant to the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission, in addition to a previous $1,000,000 Bay Restoration Fund grant, will help fund the planning, design, and construction of Enhanced Nutrient Removal (ENR) facilities at the 30 million gallons per day Western Branch Wastewater Treatment Plant. After the upgrade, the facility will reduce its nitrogen discharge by 62.5 percent and its phosphorus discharge by 70 percent, significantly reducing the amount of nutrients discharged to the Patuxent River and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay.

Seneca Wastewater Treatment Plant Enhanced Nutrient Removal Upgrade – Montgomery County

A $6,221,000 Bay Restoration Fund grant to the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission will help fund the planning, design, and construction of Enhanced Nutrient Removal (ENR) facilities at the 20 million gallons per day Seneca Wastewater Treatment Plant. After the upgrade, the facility will reduce its nitrogen discharge by 62.5 percent and its phosphorus discharge by 70 percent, significantly reducing the amount of nutrients discharged into Great Seneca Creek and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay.

Patuxent Water Reclamation Facility Enhanced Nutrient Removal Upgrade – Anne Arundel County

A Bay Restoration Fund grant increase of $3,213,000 to Anne Arundel County will help fund the planning, design, and construction of Enhanced Nutrient Removal (ENR) facilities at the 7.5 million gallons per day Patuxent Water Reclamation Facility. After the upgrade, the facility will reduce its nitrogen discharge by 62.5 percent and its phosphorus discharge by 70 percent, significantly reducing the amount of nutrients discharged to the Patuxent River and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay.

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