Van Hollen, Cardin Announce $2.35 Million for Assateague State Park Restoration

Today U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) announced that the Maryland Department of Natural Resources has been awarded $2,353,373 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to fund repairs to sand dunes, campgrounds, and roads in Assateague Beach State Park. Repairs will focus on areas damaged or destroyed in the severe winter storm that impacted Maryland on January 22 and 23, 2016.

"Assateague Beach State Park is one of the many natural treasures that draw tourists and economic activity to Maryland," said Senator Van Hollen. "This funding will help the park continue to recover from severe winter weather, keeping it safe and accessible for visitors to enjoy."

"Assateague Beach State Park is one of the most unique public parks in the Mid-Atlantic region, helping to generate millions of dollars from tourism, camping, fishing and other outdoor activities each year," said Senator Cardin. "This federal investment will help advance Maryland's economy and preserve one of our most popular and treasured natural resources."

On March 4, 2016, President Obama declared that a major disaster existed in the State of Maryland. This declaration made Public Assistance available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter snowstorm that impacted Maryland.

Assateague State Park is Maryland's only oceanfront park. It is located on Assateague Island, a barrier island bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Sinepuxent Bay on the west. Its two miles of ocean beaches offer swimming, beachcombing, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing. The Bay side offers visitors the chance to explore secluded coves by canoe or kayak. The marsh areas have a variety of wildlife, including deer, waterfowl, and wild horses.