Maryland Board of Public Works Approves Over $18 Million for Ellicott City Flood Mitigation

Annapolis, MD — The Maryland Board of Public Works has authorized substantial funding totaling over $18 million to bolster flood mitigation efforts in Howard County, with a significant portion allocated to the Extended North Tunnel project in Ellicott City. This investment, alongside nearly $5 million designated for water infrastructure upgrades across several other counties, aims to protect communities from devastating natural disasters, create construction jobs, and improve water quality. The funding supports the state’s commitment to enhancing resilience and safeguarding its residents and natural resources.

The Extended North Tunnel project in Ellicott City, a critical component of the “EC Safe and Sound” plan, received the largest allocation: a $17.2 million loan combined with a $1 million grant. This funding is earmarked for the construction of a mile-long tunnel designed to divert an estimated 26,000 gallons of stormwater per second away from historic Ellicott City. This initiative is a direct response to the significant economic and social impact of past flooding events, such as the 2016 flood that resulted in considerable job losses and millions of dollars in economic damages. The loan for this project is being provided through the Water Quality State Revolving Loan Fund, and it follows a previously approved $23.5 million loan. Governor Moore also announced in June an additional $10 million through the Resilient Maryland Loan Fund to further support Ellicott City’s flood mitigation strategies.

Beyond the Ellicott City project, the Board of Public Works also approved funding for several other essential water infrastructure improvements. In Kent County, the Rock Hall Wastewater Treatment Plant will receive $3 million, including $1.5 million in loan forgiveness, to upgrade its facilities. This project, with an overall estimated cost of $31.4 million and prior state grant support exceeding $20 million, is expected to substantially reduce the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus entering the Chesapeake Bay.

Calvert County is set to receive a $1 million loan for water system enhancements in the St. Leonard area. These funds will support the design and construction of additional drinking water supply capacity, addressing a project with an estimated total cost of $4.1 million. Cecil County’s North East Water Quality Improvement Project will benefit from a $753,176 state grant to help cover the costs of dredging the intake pond at the Leslie Water Treatment Plant. This project has an estimated total cost of approximately $970,000. Lastly, Easton Utilities in Talbot County has been awarded a $46,750 loan and up to $141,110 in loan forgiveness. This funding will assist in identifying lead service lines within the community’s drinking water system.

These investments collectively underscore Maryland’s proactive approach to infrastructure development and disaster preparedness. By addressing aging water systems and implementing advanced flood control measures, the state aims to ensure the long-term safety and economic stability of its communities, while also protecting its vital natural resources like the Chesapeake Bay.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of Governor Wes Moore

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