Van Hollen, Cardin Announce over $4.5 Million for Maryland Roads Damaged by Severe Weather

U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) have announced over $4.5 million in federal funding for the Maryland State Highway Administration to repair damages caused by the heavy rains that hit Maryland in May and June 2018, including the devastating flooding in Ellicott City and Frederick and Washington Counties. Immediately following the severe weather events, the Maryland Congressional Delegation, led by Senators Cardin and Van Hollen, wrote two letters urging the President to support the state’s requests for a Presidential Disaster Declaration. These declarations made it possible for the state to receive this critical funding.

“Last Spring, our state was hit with catastrophic flooding that harmed many Maryland families and businesses and caused serious damage to our infrastructure -- especially in Ellicott City and Western Maryland. Immediately following these storms, Team Maryland worked to secure a Presidential Disaster Declaration and ultimately get this federal funding for repairs across our state. These investments will help our communities rebuild and ensure that our roads are up to the test the next time we face severe weather. I will continue working to modernize our infrastructure and to improve Maryland’s preparedness for severe weather,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“The flooding that ravaged Ellicott City and the surrounding area last spring was devastating for countless Maryland families and small businesses. These funds will help Frederick and Washington Counties rebuild in the wake of that disaster, and come as a much-needed investment in all those who depend on our roads and highways to commute to work and school,” said Senator Cardin. “I’m proud of Team Maryland for rallying together to make this funding possible, and remain as committed as ever to ensuring Maryland is better prepared for severe weather emergencies.”

These funds are awarded by the Department of Transportation and have been allocated for the repair and reconstruction of Federal-aid highways and roads on Federal lands that have suffered serious damage. The State has received $3.6 million for repairs related to the flooding that occurred across Maryland between May 27, 2018 and June 14, 2018 and $950,000 for repairs related to the flooding that occurred in Frederick and Washington Counties between May 15, 2018 and May 19, 2018.

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