December 19th, 2019 by WCBC Radio

U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) today announced the allocation of $1,500,000 for the City of Frostburg through the Appalachian Regional Commission. These funds will be used for the construction of the Frostburg Gateway, a circular roundabout which will replace a five-way intersection and improve connections between Interstate 68, Frostburg State University, and the city center. The Maryland State Highway Administration (MSHA) will administer the project.

 

“Road infrastructure investments have the potential to improve public safety and quality of life for communities throughout our state. This project will meet the clear needs of Frostburg students, businesses, and families. I will continue to advocate for the highest levels of funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission to secure projects like this one,” said Senator Cardin, Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee.

 

“Modernizing our state’s infrastructure is crucial to the success of our communities and our economy. This funding will help improve traffic flow for commuters, residents, and visitors traveling through Frostburg. I will continue working to support the Appalachian Regional Commission and to secure funding for infrastructure investments across our state,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Environment and Public Works and Appropriations Committees.

 

“I am committed to protecting public safety and working in the best interest of our businesses, students, and communities,” said Congressman Trone. “That’s why I’m happy to announce this investment, which will help the City of Frostburg continue to grow its economy for years to come. I am proud to support the Appalachian Regional Commission, which is a key player in the strength of Maryland’s Sixth District.”

 

"We are very excited for this announcement,” said Frostburg Mayor Robert Flanigan. “ARC funding of this project makes the construction of the roundabout possible.  Not only will it improve safety for pedestrians and vehicles, but the project is integral to other planned investment adjacent to the campus of Frostburg State University.  This will be an example of how an infrastructure project can be transformative for a community." 

 

Established in 1965, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) is a partnership of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on economic development in the 420 counties across Appalachia. Local participation is provided through multi-county local development districts. Senators Cardin and Van Hollen and Congressman Trone advocated and secured significant funding for the program in the FY 2019 spending bill, including a $10 million increase from the FY2018 level. The president had previously attempted to zero out funding for the program. More information is available at www.arc.gov.