ANNAPOLIS, MD (September 21, 2005) – Governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. announced yesterday Board of Public Works approval of $150,000 for the Memorial Drive Water Extension project in the Garrett County Town of Oakland. The Board is comprised of Governor Ehrlich, Treasurer Nancy K. Kopp and Comptroller William D. Schaefer.

“Safe, abundant water is essential to the life and health of Marylanders ” said Governor Ehrlich. “The state takes pride in doing what we can to meet the needs of this community’s water distribution system.”

A water extension will be constructed to the Memorial Drive area, which also needs water storage tank replacements, due to failing on-site septic systems and wells. The existing water storage tanks were constructed in 1909, and their failure at any time can cause a major water shortage in the town of Oakland. Over 70 residents will be better served with the completion of the project.

“We wanted to express our gratitude for the assistance the state has offered through this grant,” said Oakland Mayor Asa M. McCain. “ Our water funds are so limited that any additional costs are quite a strain to our budget.”

The total cost of the project is $320,350 financed through a combination of the grant and low interest State Revolving Fund loans, both administered by the Maryland Department of the Environment. Construction began in August and the project has an estimated May 2006 completion date.

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