WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.) announced $1.5 million in federal funding to Kent County, Maryland for upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Worton.  The funding includes a $534,000 grant and a $966,000 low-interest loan.  Upgrades will help the treatment plant meet limits within discharge permit requirements.  Funding is provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program.

“Reliable, up-to-date water infrastructure is critical to our daily lives, from protecting the Chesapeake Bay from waste to safeguarding families’ drinking water. That’s why this federal investment in Worton’s wastewater treatment capabilities is so important for Kent County’s residents,” said Senator Cardin, a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “I’ll continue to fight for proactive federal investment in all of the Eastern Shore’s infrastructure.”

“Maryland’s success depends on the strength of every region of our state, and smart federal investment in the Eastern Shore and across the state is vital to the success of our overall economy,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations and Budget Committees. “This funding will help improve local infrastructure – supporting local jobs, ensuring healthy families, and protecting clean water and the Chesapeake Bay.”

The Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas.

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