Governor Wes Moore today announced the allocation of eight grants totaling $548,000 to support heritage tourism projects across Southern Maryland. This funding marks the largest contribution to the region from the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority to date, aimed at preserving, enhancing, and promoting the area's distinctive cultural and natural heritage.
Lucille Walker, the Executive Director of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, highlighted the significance of this funding. "More than half a million dollars to Southern Maryland from this program is the largest amount received to date," Walker stated. "It shows the tremendous growth that we are experiencing as a region and as a national heritage area, and each of these grants will have a significant impact for Southern Maryland."
The grants were distributed to seven local organizations and jurisdictions and are part of a larger statewide initiative that has seen over $5 million in funds awarded. These investments will facilitate various projects from museum developments and trail enhancements to the restoration of historic sites.
Among the recipients is Historic Sotterley, Inc., which received $99,720 for transforming an existing structure into a new visitor center. The Calvert Marine Museum Society, Inc. was awarded $50,000 to develop "The Patuxent: A Pictorial Encyclopedic History of Maryland's Forgotten River," a project focusing on the rich history of the Patuxent River.
The Official Piscataway Conoy Tribe of Maryland, Inc., will use their $50,000 grant to create the Piscataway Conoy Cultural Museum, aiming to celebrate and preserve the tribe's history and culture. Similarly, The Living Classrooms Foundation received $48,950 to support the Southern Maryland Trail Stewards program, enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities and environmental stewardship.
The Town of North Beach is set to utilize its $79,500 grant to connect natural resources with heritage tourism, creating synergies that promote local heritage while preserving natural landscapes. The Farm Heritage Conservancy was awarded $95,000 for the creation of the Southern Maryland Heritage Garden and Pavilion, which will serve as both an educational and cultural hub.
Lastly, the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland received two separate grants. One for $100,000 will support the management of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, and another $25,000 block grant will aid in smaller, community-focused projects.
These grants are expected to provide substantial benefits to the region, enhancing both the local economy through tourism and the preservation of Southern Maryland's rich heritage.
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