July 14th, 2021 by WCBC Radio

The Hogan administration recently announced a total of $314,550 in Maryland Heritage Area (MHAA) funding to projects located in the Passages of the Western Potomac Heritage Area.  The Canal Place Preservation and Development Authority that administers the heritage area program in Allegany County was very pleased to learn of this funding. “Heritage tourism fosters economic development and job creation, while making our communities better places to live and work”, said Governor Larry Hogan.

There is a total of 13 heritage areas in the state of Maryland, and each one contributes to Maryland’s economy by saving and enhancing places that attract heritage tourists.  Canal Place Heritage Area, now known as the Passages of the Western Potomac Heritage Area (PWPHA), was Maryland’s first heritage area. A recent economic impact study noted that the PWPHA generated a total economic impact of $19.5 million in Allegany County.  The employment impact of the heritage area supports 273 jobs.

 

Organizations receiving Fiscal Year 22 MHAA funding in Allegany County include $95,000 to the Allegany County Commissioners for repairs to the Washington Street Library; $64,500 to the Allegany County Museum to install an HVAC system; and a total of $155,000 to the CPPDA for a management plan update, the PWPHA mini grants program, and for the administration of Canal Place, and the heritage area program.   The PWPHA mini grant application deadline is October 4, 2021. Applications will be available on the “News” heading of the heritage area website found at www.passagesofthepotomac.org.   Please contact the CPPDA at 301-724-3655 ext. 100 for any questions to the mini grants or send the office an email through the website.