Maryland Approves Record $43.1 Million in Bonds for Southern Maryland Infrastructure Projects

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development has authorized a record-breaking $43.1 million in bond proceeds through its Local Government Infrastructure Financing Program to fund critical infrastructure improvements in Southern Maryland. This issuance marks the largest in the program’s 38-year history and will support essential public services and community revitalization efforts in St. Mary’s County and the Town of Chesapeake Beach. The program, managed by the Department’s Community Development Administration, provides loans to local governments and municipalities for community development initiatives, ranging from sidewalk repairs and vehicle fleet upgrades to public facility renovations, while also offering technical assistance to navigate the financing process.

The substantial investment is poised to bring significant upgrades to the region. St. Mary’s County Metropolitan Commission (MetCom), responsible for the county’s water and sewer services, will receive 35.9 million for critical wastewater infrastructure projects. These funds will be allocated to the rehabilitation and replacement of existing facilities, including the Forest Run and Piney Point wastewater treatment plants. Furthermore, this allocation will initiate the first phase of a collaborative revitalization project with the St. Mary’s County government focused on the Southampton community. An additional 1.25 million is earmarked for the replacement of MetCom’s vehicle fleet, ensuring operational efficiency for essential services.

In Chesapeake Beach, bond proceeds will be utilized to bridge financing gaps for the extensive renovation and modernization of the town’s water park. The overall project carries an estimated cost of $19 million, with the Local Government Infrastructure Financing Program contributing $5.9 million. This state funding will complement $12 million in town funds and an additional $1.1 million in state grant support. The renovation aims to restore a vital community asset that has been closed for the past three years. The revitalized water park is envisioned to offer an enhanced experience for both residents and visitors, continuing its decades-long role as a central hub for recreation, tourism, and community engagement.

The Local Government Infrastructure Financing Program is designed to assist local governments that may have limited resources for independent financing, providing them with access to long-term capital funding at favorable terms. Since its inception in 1988, the program has facilitated nearly $667 million in capital funding for hundreds of projects across Maryland. These projects are foundational to the state’s communities, supporting essential infrastructure that underpins daily life. This latest bond issuance underscores a significant commitment to enhancing the quality of life and public services within the affected communities.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

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