The Western Maryland Economic Future Investment Board has released the 2024 Annual Report for the Senator George C. Edwards Fund, highlighting significant economic development initiatives in Garrett County. These investments aim to support critical infrastructure, expand healthcare access, and promote business growth, strengthening the region’s economic future. In 2024, the Fund granted $5,877,455 to various projects, with a projected economic impact of $43,492,000 and an anticipated creation of 122 new jobs. Funded projects include upgrades for Garrett Container Systems, infrastructure for a senior housing community, healthcare expansions, and business expansions like Green Turtle. The Fund also supported ongoing projects from previous years, including affordable housing developments and business-ready facilities. According to Steve Kelley, Director of Garrett County Community Development, these investments are crucial for economic resilience and community development.
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Senator George C. Edwards Fund Announces Economic Development Investments in Garrett County
The Western Maryland Economic Future Investment Board released the 2024 Annual Report for the Senator George C. Edwards Fund, detailing significant economic development initiatives in Garrett County. These investments will fuel critical infrastructure projects, expand healthcare access, and support business growth, strengthening the region’s economic future. n nIn 2024, the Fund awarded $5,877,455 in grants to support a diverse range of projects, with a total projected economic impact of $43,492,000 and 122 new jobs anticipated. The funded projects reflect a strategic focus on long-term economic sustainability, addressing pressing needs in housing, healthcare, business expansion, and infrastructure improvements. n nSeveral significant projects were awarded funding in 2024, including: n nGarrett Container Systems Upgrade ($1.3M) – Supporting facility improvements to enhance manufacturing operations. n nNorth Hill Community ($900K) – Infrastructure development for a new 55-plus senior housing community in Grantsville. n nMountain Laurel Medical Center Expansion ($1M) – Increasing healthcare accessibility in Northern Garrett County. n nGreen Turtle Business Expansion ($275K) –Convert the outdoor patio into year-round enclosed dining and bar. n nCherry Hill Assisted Living Facility ($1M, Pending Disbursement) – A new 24-bed residential care center. n nSunrise Sanitation Facility ($800K, Pending Disbursement) – A regional recyclable materials processing center. n nTown of Accident Residential Infrastructure ($435K, Pending Disbursement) – Enhancing utilities for future housing development. n nQuest for Hope Counseling Center ($167K, Pending Disbursement) – Establishing a mental health support facility. n nThese initiatives align with Garrett County’s priorities, ensuring economic vitality, job creation, and community well-being. n nThe Fund also saw the completion of major projects that have strengthened Garrett County’s economic landscape: n nBeitzel Resources ($1.5M) – Enhanced operational capacity, creating 25 jobs. n nSimon Pearce ($1.3M) – Expanded production facilities, adding 34 jobs. n nCorsa Coal/North Mine ($1.3M) – Supported regional mining operations, adding 60 jobs. n nOngoing projects from previous funding rounds continue to support long-term growth, including: n nAffordable Housing Development ($1.2M, 2023) – Infrastructure investment in Grantsville. n nKeyser’s Ridge Business Park Utilities ($500K, 2023) – Expanding propane system capacity. n nMEDCO Spec Building Purchase ($600K, 2023) – A new business-ready facility, expected to create 120 jobs. n nThe 2024 Economic Impact Analysis underscores the Fund’s effectiveness, with key metrics demonstrating its role in driving private investment, job creation, and infrastructure improvements: n n-Total Project Value: $56.6 million n n-Total Funding Awarded: $12.47 million n n-New Jobs Created: 361 n n“We work to coordinate these investments to strengthening Garrett County’s economic foundation, fostering job creation, and improving the quality of life for residents,” said Steve Kelley, Director of Garrett County Community Development. “The Senator George C. Edwards Fund continues to be a lynchpin to ensure a thriving future for Garrett County.” n nAs the Fund moves into funding projects in 2025, it remains a key part of strategic investments that drive economic resilience, innovation, and community development. Garrett County looks forward to actively participating on the Board and continuing collaboration with local businesses, municipalities, and organizations to build a stronger Western Maryland.