ANNAPOLIS, MD (September 2, 1999) – A project to restore the salt-water marshes in the Ocean Pines community of Worcester County received approval yesterday from the Board of Public Works for a $150,000 grant. An additional $835,000 will be funded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the state grant of $150,000 will be matched by funds from Worcester County.

"Worcester County is clearly a leader in wetlands restoration and continues to find new and innovative ways to protect our greatest environmental treasures," said Governor Parris N. Glendening. "By investing in our green infrastructure we are ensuring that future generations will enjoy clean air, clean water and a healthy environment."

Approximately 8.5 acres of dredge material disposal lands will be reclaimed and converted into a salt-water marsh. The completed design of the new project is due in December of this year, with construction set to begin in January 2000. Final construction of the marsh is expected to be completed by April.

"All five commissioners join me in supporting this crucial project," said Jeanne Lynch, president of Worcester County Board of Commissioners. "We are pleased that MDE and the Board of Public Works sees the value of this endeavor and join us in our efforts to restore our critical coastal bays habitats.

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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