ANNAPOLIS, MD (December 15, 1999) – The Maryland Board of Public Works approved a $200,000 grant increase today for the construction of a Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) system at the Pittsville Wastewater Treatment Plant in Wicomico County.

"We have an obligation to future generations to protect and preserve the ecosystems in our precious Chesapeake Bay," said Governor Parris N. Glendening. "By funding the Pittsville project and controlling nutrients we are moving aggressively to ensure that the water in the Pocomoke River and the Bay is clean and healthy."

The project will receive a $200,000 grant increase to upgrade the existing wastewater treatment plant to reduce nutrient discharge and achieve the state’s 40 percent nutrient reduction goals. The project received a previous grant of $500,000 and a $700,000 matching grant from Wicomico County.

"This project will reduce environmental effects on the Pocomoke River and Chesapeake Bay, and eliminate on-site septic systems," said Wicomico County Board of Commissioners President David A. Fitzgerald.

The project is consistent with the Governor’s Smart Growth initiative as Pittsville is considered a priority funding area.

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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