WICOMICO COUNTY, Md.- The Maryland Board of Public Works has unanimously approved $4.3 million in funding for projects to provide safe drinking water and boost flood resiliency in Wicomico County.
According to the Maryland Department of the Environment, the funding will benefit two key projects. The City of Fruitland will receive $3.4 million in grants and loans to reduce flooding and water pollution, while the Town of Pittsville will get more than $900,000 to upgrade its aging water treatment plant.
Fruitland will use $2.6 million from the state’s Comprehensive Flood Management Grant Program to overhaul its stormwater drainage system. Drainage channels feeding into Tuxent Branch are overgrown and undersized, making them inadequate during large storms. The project will reinforce the channels, replace outdated culverts, and restore streams to reduce flooding and improve water quality.
The estimated $3.5 million project includes funding from a $605,341 Bay Restoration Fund grant, a $269,884 Water Quality State Revolving Fund loan, and $79,380 in local funding. The improvements align with Maryland’s broader climate adaptation and resiliency goals by reducing stormwater runoff and pollution.
Pittsville will receive $918,616 through Maryland’s Drinking Water Revolving Loan program to upgrade its water treatment plant, which serves approximately 1,500 homes. Planned improvements include replacing and repairing equipment to improve the plant’s ability to filter iron and ensure reliable service.
The agency says the total cost of the Pittsville project is estimated at $2.7 million. It is supported by prior funding, including $968,000 from a Water Supply Financial Assistance grant, an $800,000 Community Development Block grant, and $32,400 in local contributions.
According to state leaders, these infrastructure investments not only safeguard public health but also support local jobs, enhance public spaces, and stimulate economic sectors like tourism and Maryland’s $600 million seafood industry.