CUMBERLAND, MD – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) today celebrated the Bicentennial of the National Road, which was the nation’s first federally financed infrastructure project, with construction beginning in Cumberland on May 8, 1811.  Senator Cardin walked in Downtown Cumberland’s National Road Bicentennial Parade, then toured the Allegany Museum’s National Road Exhibit and presented a copy of his Congressional Record statement on National Road’s bicentennial to be encased in the National Road Bicentennial Time Capsule.

“The Bicentennial of the National Road marks both an important day in our state and our nation’s history, and an opportunity to recognize the importance of investment in our national infrastructure,” said Senator Cardin.  “The National Road is rightly referred to as ‘the road that built America,’ because it was as a vital a gateway to the West and facilitated economic growth and opportunity.  As our first federally financed infrastructure project, the National Road reminds us that supporting infrastructure investments is key in promoting economic development.”

Following the tour of the Allegany Museum’s exhibit, Senator Cardin met with Allegany County Commissioners, Cumberland Mayor Brian Grim, and Cumberland City Council members.  Earlier in the day, the Senator spent the morning in Boonsboro, MD promoting the importance of conservation, recycling, and sustainable living at the town’s annual Green Fest festival.  

 ###