WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-Md.) today announced that the Maryland Department of Planning (MDP) has received a $50,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). The funds will be used to support staffing for projects undertaken by the Maryland Department of Planning ARC Program Manager in Washington, Garrett and Allegany Counties.
“By connecting the resources of the federal government with impactful programs and development strategies on the ground, the Appalachian Regional Commission has made a real difference in Western Maryland,” said Senator Cardin, a member of the Senate Finance and Environment and Public Works Committees. “From 21st century job training, to infrastructure projects, broadband expansion and beyond, federal investment in the ARC means more jobs and meaningful growth in the region. This specific investment in Washington, Garrett, and Allegany Counties will allow the ARC to partner more efficiently with regional shareholders.”
“I’m on the side of rural communities, especially those that have lost manufacturing jobs in Western Maryland,” Senator Mikulski said. “I’m proud to fight for federal investment in Maryland communities that attract new business, increased economic development and create jobs. ARC makes investments in jobs today and tomorrow to keep Maryland and America moving.”
ARC funds will partially cover of salaries for the program manager, other staff and operating costs. Operating costs include travel expenses to attend ARC meetings and visit current and potential projects in the region, supplies, and other office expenses. The program manager will oversee the preparation of the Annual Strategy Statement and the State Development Plan. The manager will also develop ten to fifteen area development projects and two to three access road projects for submission to ARC. Additionally, the manager will conduct up to fifteen project site visits, attend quarterly Local Development District meetings and attend Commission meetings.
The state of Maryland will contribute an additional $50,000 to bring the total funding for this project to $100,000.
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