WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Benjamin L. Cardin (both D-Md.) today announced the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded a $750,000 grant to fund upgrades to Friendsville’s sewer system. The project will increase the town’s sewer capacity, provide greater environmental protection to Bear Creek and Youghiogheny River and expand capacity for new businesses in the Town of Friendsville, in Garrett County.

“This grant is a federal investment in the economic growth and development of Friendsville. Improvements in the town’s infrastructure will attract new businesses and jobs, while also helping to protect the Bear Creek and Youghiogheny River,” said Senator Mikulski. “I will continue to fight to keep Western Maryland a priority in the federal checkbook."

“This ARC grant is an investment that will improve the economic health and viability of Friendsville," said Senator Cardin. “It will fund important improvements to the existing sewer system, and will have a beneficial effect on Bear Creek and the Youghiogheny River.”

Friendsville’s sanitary sewer system, constructed in 1973, serves approximately 185 customers. Over the years, a number of sewer-related problems have been discovered. A 2004 examination of the sewer system found that during the spring, and in times of high groundwater, inflow/infiltration rates exceeded the permitted sewer plant capacity. In addition, there are currently 19 households located within the town’s limits that are not connected to the public sewer system. These properties have failing on-site sewage disposal systems that are discharging into Bear Creek. Finally, Friendsville’s limited sewer capacity has hindered commercial and residential expansion within the town.

The grant will help pay for a three mile extension of the sewer line to service the 19 households not currently connected to Friendsville’s sewer system, and for the cleaning and replacement of 238 laterals. This will increase Friendsville’s overall sewer system capacity and help attract new businesses to the town.

The ARC is a federal-state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life.