ANNAPOLIS, MD (March 21, 2001) – The Maryland Board of Public Works today approved a $200,000 grant to Washington County for the second phase of improvements to the Hancock Water Facility.

"This appropriation addresses a simple quality of life issue in that area of the state," Governor Parris N. Glendening said.

Town officials are hoping the construction of a new water softener facility for the water supply system serving Hancock will correct water hardness problems that result in sediment left on cooling systems, clogged faucets and water heater coils coated with calcium deposits.

"With the grant, the Town of Hancock will improve the quality of water pumped to the 753 accounts serviced by the town," said Louis O. Close, Hancock town manager. "When the town’s water supply was converted from surface water to groundwater, many citizens registered formal complaints concerning the amount of calcium in the groundwater."

The total cost of the project is estimated at $295,320, of which $95,320 is the town’s share. Construction is expected to begin by the end of the month and completed by August.

Chaired by Governor Glendening, the Board of Public Works also is comprised of Comptroller William Donald Schaefer and Treasurer Richard N. Dixon. The Board is empowered by the General Assembly to approve major construction and consultant contracts, equipment purchases, property transactions and other procurement actions.

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