PRINCE FREDERICK — Today, August 3, 2006, Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. was joined by Secretary Ron Franks of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Superintendent Rick Barton of the Maryland Park Service (MPS) and members of the Friends of Calvert Cliffs State Park (FoCCSP) to cut the ribbon for the re-opening of Calvert Cliffs State Park.
The main area of the park was closed for five months in order to make way for $800,000 worth of renovations. The funds were used to repave parking areas and build a new lot for buses. In addition, improvements were made to stormwater management and a loop was created to reroute traffic and enable easier travel within the park. The day-use area includes picnic tables, grills, a fishing pond (still being repaired) a comfort station, a recycled tire playground, a pavilion, new bus parking, and ample ADA parking.
The Friends of Calvert Cliffs State Park were founded in 1990 in order to save the park from closure. This invaluable partner now works “shoulder to shoulder” with the Maryland Park Service (MPS) and co-manages the facility. The FoCCSP collects donations at the park in order to assist in its continued operations and improvement. Through their efforts buildings have been constructed, a bridge installed, equipment purchased, and numerous maintenance projects accomplished.
“I applaud the Friends of Calvert Cliffs State Park for their leadership,” said DNR Secretary C. Ronald Franks. “Calvert Cliffs State Park can now better serve Maryland families as they continue to enjoy Maryland’s natural treasures.”
Governor Ehrlich (R) faces stiff competition from Democratic candidate Martin O'Malley in this November's Gubernatorial election. O'Malley is currently serving as the Mayor of Baltimore. Ehrlich is the first Republican to hold the office since Spiro Agnew served from 1967-1969.
RELATED INFORMATION:
Photo Essay: Calvert Cliffs State Park - December 2002
http://somd.com/photos/calvert_cliffs/index.shtml
DNR: Calvert Cliffs State Park
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/calvertcliffs.html