ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 9, 1997) -- A project to improve the capability of the Ocean City Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) in Worcester County, to process and handle excess sewage sludge will receive financial assistance thanks to State action.

Governor Parris N. Glendening yesterday announced Board of Public Works approval of a $200,000 grant to construct a primary sludge holding tank and lime stabilization facility. The facility is expected to serve more than 5,000 people during the odd season and more than 250,000 during peak season.

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.

"This project will allow Ocean City's Wastewater Treatment Plant to deal with the problem of excessive sludge that occurs during peak seasonal periods in this major resort," said Governor Glendening. "In addition to the removal of public health threats, the project also will improve the water quality of the plant's discharge that reaches the Atlantic Ocean."

In addition to the State grant, the Town of Ocean City Board of Public Works has contributed $4,221,000 for a total project cost of $4,421,000. Construction began last month and will be complete in May 1999.

"When complete, (the project) will result in the elimination of potential public health problems and provide a better quality of life to those living and working in the immediate area," said Ocean City Mayor James N. Mathias, Jr.

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