ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 29, 1998) -- A project to design and construct a biological nutrient removal (BNR) facility at the Mattawoman Wastewater Treatment Plant in Charles County will receive financial assistance thanks to Board of Public Works approval today of a $650,000 grant.

"This project is important because it will reduce nutrient pollutants that enter the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay," said Governor Parris N. Glendening. "This will help Maryland achieve its goal of a 40 percent reduction in nutrient pollution in the Chesapeake Bay by the year 2000.

In ​addition to the State grant, Charles County is contributing $3,174,200 and Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission is contributing $793,400. Previous grants from the State and federal governments total $20,000. Construction is expected to begin in July 1999 and be completed by August 2000.

"Charles County Government, in cooperation with the State of Maryland, desires to improve the water quality of the Chesapeake Bay by reducing the amount of nutrients being discharged from sewage treatment plants located on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries,' said the Charles County Commissioners in a prepared statement. "We look forward to working with the State in this endeavor."

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

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