Van Hollen, U.S. Department of Commerce Invest $2.4 Million in American Rescue Plan Funds to Support Waterfront Infrastructure Improvements to Boost Tourism in Cambridge, Maryland

Today, Senator Van Hollen and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.4 million grant to the Chesapeake Conservancy, Annapolis, Maryland, to support development of infrastructure that will attract tourists to Cambridge, Maryland. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This project will support redevelopment of the Cambridge waterfront through construction of a new promenade and other improvements. This EDA grant will be matched with $600,000 in local funds, and is expected to help create 73 jobs, retain seven jobs, and generate $20 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

“Folks come from across our state and our country to experience the Chesapeake Bay and all it has to offer. And by investing in our local infrastructure, we can help ensure our tourism and outdoor recreation industries remain strong,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen. “These federal dollars will do just that in Cambridge, while also creating new, good-paying jobs and boosting the local economy. I fought to pass the American Rescue Plan to secure investments like these for our local communities, and I’ll continue working to bring more jobs and opportunity to our state.”

“The Biden-Harris Administration is dedicated to supporting the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sector as it works to recover and rebuild following the pandemic,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment will boost critical tourism and hospitality industries on Maryland’s Eastern Shore while building resiliency in the region’s economy.”

“The travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sector is a critical economic driver for many communities and the Economic Development Administration is pleased to support community-led development strategies designed to boost tourism and build a better America,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment will support the redevelopment of the Cambridge waterfront, helping to make it a focal point for area tourism.”

“Tourism is critical to the local economies of so many Maryland communities along the Chesapeake Bay. This EDA grant will contribute to the recovery of the Cambridge waterfront and further build its capacity to welcome visitors,” said Senator Ben Cardin. “The COVID-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on tourism, but federal investments in our state like this one will help protect the special character of places on the Eastern Shore and secure a sustainable future for their tourism industries.” 

This project is funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in grants to all 50 states and territories in 2021. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022.