Press Release

October 28, 2020
Cardin, Van Hollen, Harris Announce Nearly $13.4 Million to Upgrade Wastewater Infrastructure in Chesapeake City

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (all Md.) today announced $13,398,000 in funding to construct a new wastewater treatment plant in the Town of Chesapeake City in Cecil County.  This plant will replace two existing treatment sites, and meet new nutrient removal requirements.    

“The Town of Chesapeake City and its rich history serve as local treasure to us Marylanders.  This award will provide critical upgrades to wastewater infrastructure and ensure clean water flows into the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal and throughout the region,” said Senator Cardin, Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee. “I will continue to advocate for clean, safe and reliable water for local communities here in Maryland and across the country.”    

“The water quality of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are vital to Cecil County residents’ health and the local economy. These infrastructure upgrades will help improve access to clean water and support those whose livelihoods rely on a healthy Bay. I will keep fighting for federal investments to continue improving essential infrastructure throughout our state,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations and Environment and Public Works Committees.

“I previously met with town leaders to discuss this proposed project, and that’s why it’s great to hear that Chesapeake City will receive these sizable awards to construct a new wastewater treatment facility.  At a time when our local communities are struggling, these federal dollars are more important than ever.  This new facility will increase efficiency and further our efforts in Maryland to reduce nutrient runoff in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed,” said Rep. Harris.       

The Town of Chesapeake City was awarded $5,029,000 in federal grant funding, and approved for a federal loan of $1,500,000.  Funding comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development as a part of the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program.  Through the Bay Restoration Fund, the Maryland Department of the Environment will also be contributing $6,869,000 in state grant funding for the project.  

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development funds economic development and social services in rural communities across the country. Rural Development initiatives support essential services and infrastructure improvements.

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