Mikulski, Cardin Announce Crucial Investment for Kent County Wastewater Treatment to Create Jobs, Help Protect Chesapeake Bay

August 28, 2012

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) today announced over $1.1 million in federal funds through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development program that will help the town of Betterton upgrade its wastewater treatment plant. The federal funding comes through a $676,000 loan and $477,000 grant.  

"I am proud to work in the U.S. Senate to build communities and create jobs. This federal investment in Betterton's wastewater plant will do just that," Senator Mikulski said. "Maryland cities and towns need to upgrade their water and sewer infrastructure, but they can't do it on their own. These federal dollars will help the community grow while protecting the health of the Bay, Maryland's greatest natural resources, and the lives and livelihoods that depend on it."  

"Upgrading Betterton's wastewater treatment facility is critical to improving the Chesapeake Bay," said Senator Cardin, a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee.  "This federal infrastructure investment will significantly reduce the nutrient load in the Sassafras River and help restore our state's greatest natural treasure, the Bay."  

The Rural Development funding will be used to make crucial upgrades to Betterton's existing wastewater treatment plant. The plant was built in 1969 and is currently operating at 10 percent of its original capacity. The upgrades will also help reduce nutrient loading on the Sassafras River, a tributary to the Chesapeake Bay.