Contact:

Cassie Harvey (Mikulski) 202-228-1122

WASHINGTON, D.C. –
U.S.
Senators Benjamin L. Cardin and
Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-MD) today announced that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded a $820,679 grant to the City of Cumberland to help fund construction and improvements to the Virginia Avenue corridor.

 “ARC grants provide important funding to stimulate economic development and growth,” said
Senator Cardin.
  “Improvements to the Virginia Avenue corridor will create dozens of new jobs and attract millions of dollars in investment to Cumberland.”

 

“This grant is a federal investment in the economic growth and development of Cumberland.  Improvements to the Virginia Avenue corridor will help revitalize the city and attract new businesses and jobs,” said
Senator Mikulski.  “I will continue to fight in the U.S. Senate to keep Western Maryland a priority in the federal checkbook.”

The grant will fund roadway improvements for close to a mile of Virginia Avenue and surrounding streets.
  Improvements will include road resurfacing, sidewalk repair, placement of bicycle friendly inlet grates and improved traffic control devices.
  The project will provide improved access to key neighborhood centers and promote local economic development.
  It is anticipated that the project will support the creation of 37 new jobs and retain 56 existing jobs located in the corridor.
  The project will also help to attract approximately $3.6 million in total investment to the corridor within five years.

The ARC is a federal-state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life.