ANNAPOLIS (March 18, 2009) - The Maryland Board of Public Works today approved $208,000 of local-side Program Open Space funding to acquire 36 acres for the development of a public recreational trail in Popes Creek, Charles County.
Program Open Space was established in 1969 to preserve Maryland’s natural resources and provide recreational opportunities for its citizens. The majority of funding for the Program is provided by a portion (75%) of the state real estate transfer tax. About half of the funding is allotted for stateside projects that support major land acquisitions across the State and the balance is reserved for park operations and county projects. Each county’s allotment of Program Open Space funds is determined by transfer tax contributions and population change as determined by census data.
The three-member Board of Public Works, chaired by Governor O’Malley, is comprised of Treasurer Nancy Kopp and Comptroller Peter Franchot. The BPW is authorized by the General Assembly to approve major construction and consultant contracts, equipment purchases, property transactions and other procurement actions.