ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 9, 1997) -- A project to design and create 10 acres of wetlands in the vicinity of the confluence of the Northeast Branch and Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River in Prince George's County will receive an initial financial boost thanks to State assistance.

Governor Parris N. Glendening yesterday announced Board of Public Works approval for an initial $135,000 grant for a project that will restore wetland habitat within the Anacostia River. Three distinct types of wetlands will be created, each characteristic of those either currently or historically found within the Anacostia River basin.

Chaired by the Governor, 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.

"I am pleased to see that Maryland's wetlands restoration program will begin in this area that was drained years ago as part of a flood protection project," said Governor Glendening. "This effort to create new wetlands, along with a strong enforcement program, will help us to reach our wetland goals and protect Maryland's natural resources. This project will improve the water quality of the Anacostia and Potomac rivers and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay."

In addition to this grant, the project will receive $435,00 from the County. Future State assistance for subsequent phases of this project probably will reach $300,000 for a total project cost of $870,000. Construction is expected to begin in July 1999 and will be complete in March 2000.

"Prince George's County is proud to be leading the State in its wetlands restoration program," said Prince George's County Executive Wayne K. Curry. "Located in the Port Towns Revitalization District of Bladensburg, Colmar Manor and Cottage City, the Annacostia River Basin Wetlands Project is a jewel in our efforts to develop strategies to solve environmental problems while enhancing economic development in older communities."

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