ANNAPOLIS, MD (December 1, 1999) – The Maryland Board of Public Works approved two grants today for sewage system upgrades in Garrett County.

"Renovating both of these sewage systems will dramatically improve the quality of life for Garrett County families," said Governor Parris N. Glendening. "Residents will be able to drink safer and healthier water, and will enjoy a cleaner Deep Creek Lake."

A grant of $100,000 was approved for a proposed extension of the sewer system in the Meadow Mountain area, which will connect to the existing Deep Creek Lake sewer system. Many of the 300 residents in this area have failing septic systems. Connection to the Deep Creek Lake sewer system will eliminate the contamination of individual water supplies and the lake from the failing septic systems. This project is consistent with the Smart Growth initiative in that it will enhance the level of pollution control in this existing community. It is expected that $400,000 in additional grants and $808,135 in loans may also be applied for.

The other grant approved today was a $7,950 grant increase for the renovation of the Mary Drive pumping station in Mountain Lake Park. A grant of $12,050 was previously approved for this project that is designed to eliminate pump failures and sewage backups in private residences. The project, also consistent with Smart Growth initiatives, received an additional $2,000 grant from Garrett County.

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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