April 26th, 2016 by WCBC Radio

Its primary election day in Maryland- and early indications are that it could be a heavier than normal voter turnout in Allegany County. Early voting numbers ran more than double over the 2012  election- and although the 1,169 total early voters isn’t a great number, it may reflect a stronger interest in today’s election with most attributing that too the hotly contested, often times controversial presidential contests.  Maryland re-implemented the paper ballot system this year. To create a verified paper trail, lawmakers voted to return to paper.   Allegany County has roughly 36,000 eligible voters. The gubernatorial election in 2014 had just 20.9 percent of eligible voters casting ballots. The percentage of eligible voters, according to the Maryland State Election Board, participating in recent primaries in Allegany County were: 2014 midterm primary, 20.86 percent; 2012 presidential primary, 28.28 percent; 2010 midterm primary, 36.99; and 2008 presidential primary, 31.49 percent.   Allegany County’s 36 polling places will be open Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The voting site at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 16 Washington St., will also be open despite work on water lines just below the site.  Those voting at Emmanuel Episcopal will need to follow marked detours to the church.