July 18, 2016 — Ellicott City, MD — The Patapsco Heritage Area, the preeminent organization preserving and protecting the history and resources of the Patapsco River Valley, is announcing the receipt $150,000 in state funding for watershed restoration and program management. Grants from the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority are being matched by contributions from Howard County and Baltimore County governments, and represents the highest level of public commitments to the Patapsco Heritage Area since its certification in 2015. “When we became the state’s newest heritage area, we had ambitious goals to enhance one of the most culturally important areas in Maryland,” said Patapsco Heritage Area President Grace Kubofcik. “This funding will help us achieve those goals, and we thank Gov. Larry Hogan, Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman and County Executive Kevin Kamenetz for recognizing the importance of our mission.” The Patapsco Heritage Area received two of 52 matching grants awarded this month by the state Authority. One of the grants provides resources for the Alliance for the Chesapeake to plan for stream restoration efforts to address flooding in downtown Ellicott City; the second grant allows for overall management of the Area’s functions.
“We are delighted to join with the Hogan Administration in supporting the goals and accomplishments of pivotal projects to improve our State and County,” said Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman. “Grants to the Patapsco Valley Heritage Area and the Alliance for the Chesapeake help to preserve and protect the history and natural beauty of our most cherished areas for residents and tourists alike. The educational opportunities and environmental stewardship provided by these grants will benefit generations to come.” “The Patapsco Heritage Area is one of Baltimore County’s treasures. It’s a place to enjoy and preserve the beauty of the outdoors and a place to celebrate and learn more about our history,” said Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. “With over 1,400 volunteers supporting environmental and heritage efforts, Patapsco is a place we can all enjoy. Baltimore County is pleased to also provide grant funds to further programming and preservation of the Patapsco Heritage Greenway.” Baltimore County Councilman Tom Quirk adds, “I live and work within the Patapsco Heritage Area and I know how important it is to the State of Maryland and to Baltimore County. Its unique history and environment make it a truly special place.”
Howard County Councilman Jon Weinstein said he was “thrilled for the grants going to the Alliance for the Chesapeake/READY and the Patapsco Heritage Greenway organization. The award of these grants reflects the outstanding work of these organizations and the hugely positive impact their programs have on the environment and commerce in Historic Ellicott City and Elkridge.” About the Patapsco Heritage Area: The Patapsco Heritage Area was certified as the state’s 13th Heritage Area in 2015, and works to preserve, interpret and protect the culture of the river valley. Notable initiatives include History Days, watershed cleanups, stewardship activities and collaborative projects and events with partners in the valley. For more information, go to www.patapsco.org or follow us on Facebook (Patapsco Valley Heritage Area) and twitter (@patapscoVHA).