WASHINGTON, D.C. –
Senators Benjamin L. Cardin
and
Barbara A. Mikulski
  (both D-Md.) today announced the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded
a $100,000 grant to the Progress Fund for the Great Allegany Passage Economic Development Program.
  The funding will be used to create new business opportunities for residents of Western Maryland.

“This grant is a targeted investment in the economic development of a region that has often been isolated,” said
Senator Cardin.  “These funds will promote business development, create dozens of jobs and boost local revenue.”

 ”
This federal funding is an investment in jobs today and jobs tomorrow in Western Maryland,” said
Senator Mikulski.
  “I’m so proud these grants will be used to promote local industry and to provide new, good paying jobs for Maryland residents.
  I will continue to fight in the U.S. Senate to keep Western Maryland a priority in the federal checkbook.”

The Great Allegany Passage Trail and the Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Canal Towpath could have a tremendous economic impact on the communities bordering it.
  The Progress Fund will use the ARC grant to harness this economic potential by offering technical assistance to existing businesses, creating jobs and marketing the region as a tourist destination.
  The Progress Fund’s work will result in at least twenty new business startups or expansions, at least 57 new jobs, and a ten percent increase in business revenue and trail use.
   

The ARC is a federal-state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life.