ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 3, 2006) – Governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. today announced Board of Public Works approval of a $112,000 grant to Charlestown in Cecil County for shoreline stabilization. The Board is comprised of Governor Ehrlich, Treasurer Nancy K. Kopp and Comptroller William D. Schaefer.

“This project is necessary to prevent further erosion along the river and reduce sedimentation and non-point source pollution into that waterway,” Governor Ehrlich said.

The Charlestown Shoreline Stabilization and Streamline Restoration Program includes the planning, design and construction of shoreline stabilization devices along the Northeast River, which runs through Charlestown, and the restoration of an unnamed stream.

Additionally, the grant, from the Maryland Department of the Environment’s (MDE) Water Quality Infrastructure Program, will assist town officials in addressing shoreline erosion problems that have adversely impacted water quality and property values in the area.

“The Town of Charlestown would like to express its appreciation to the State of Maryland for its initial grant for this project,” said Charlestown Administrator Stanley Hearne. “We would like to thank the Maryland Department of the Environment for assisting in procuring the additional funding.”

The total cost of the project is $319,000 of which $37,150 is the local share. Previous state contributions to the project included a $120,750 grant and a Department of Natural Resources loan. Construction on the upgrade began in February and is slated for completion by July.

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