Dear Friends,
Howard County saw its first confirmed COVID-19 case on March 15th. In the seven months since, we have made significant strides as a community, and have come together to battle this unprecedented pandemic. Our HoCo RISE plan continues to be our guideline to combat COVID-19, and ensure the overall safety of our community.
As of 9:00 a.m. this morning, according to the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), we have a 7-day average positivity rate of 2.32% and a total of 31.0% of our population has been tested. We are monitoring slight increases in our numbers and call upon our residents to stay vigilant. Although our positivity rate remains below the Governor’s and CDC’s goal of under 5%, it has increased from 1.81% on September 24th. Our cases per 100,000 of our population is currently 6.58.
We also have concerns regarding our contact tracing response. While contact tracers continue to reach out to all cases and their contacts for residents who tested positive for COVID-19. Only 73.7% of contacts of positive cases are picking up the phone. It is vital that residents answer when contacted by the Howard County Health Department. These calls help prevent further transmission across the community.
One of our top goals within our HoCo RISE framework was surpassing 6,500 administered tests per week. While there were some who doubted we could achieve that goal, we are thrilled that as a community, we have surpassed that goal for thirteen consecutive weeks, reaching 9,999 total administered tests last week (Oct 11 – Oct 17). We are pleased to have several testing locations throughout our county. For a full list of all our locations, please visit hchealth.org
Another goal was to ensure adequate hospital capacity in the case of a possible surge. Howard County General Hospital has 133 staffed acute care beds, 33 ICU beds, and 38 ventilators. Today, there are 10 COVID-19 patients in both ICU and Acute Care units, and we are seeing a continued decline in COVID-19 related hospitalizations.
It’s critical that residents understand that the virus is not gone. Contact tracing efforts have revealed that 35% of cases are due to family gatherings, followed by those who attend house parties. As the weather gets cooler and the holidays are approaching, we must actively avoid any indoor gatherings and events where physical distancing and wearing a mask is not feasible.
Wash your hands, wear a mask, and practice physical distancing. We will only get through this, together.
For more data and COVID-19 information, please click here. |
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Congratulations Vivian C. "Millie" Bailey!
Congratulations to Howard County’s beloved veteran, Vivian C. “Millie” Bailey. Today, at 102 years young, she crossed one item off her bucket list and went skydiving. Special thanks to Skydive Baltimore and Millie’s tandem partner, Cornelius, for the video taken during the dive. They were at 10,000 feet when they were pushed out of the plane and started their free fall.
Please enjoy this video of her dive!
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High School #14 Announcement
Ensuring our children and educators have a quality, safe learning and teaching environment is critical to the success of our public schools. The need for additional school capacity is one of the most pressing issues in Howard County, and I’m pleased to announce that Troy Park in Elkridge is the preferred location for High School #14.
Troy Park is the sole location that balances our interest in preserving taxpayer funds by limiting acquisition costs while curbing impacts on the surrounding community. We must continue to be smart and strategic when planning and investing in the future of our schools – the decisions we make today will have a long-term impact on our community and a generation of students in Elkridge and throughout our entire County.
For more information, please click here. |
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The Log Cabin is Home
For over 30 years, the Thomas Isaac Log Cabin has been an iconic fixture at the top of Main Street and has served as a symbol of resiliency. We were glad to move this log cabin back to its original home on Main Street. For many visitors who walk down Main Street for the first time, it is the historic buildings, the small-town shops, and the friendly locals that keep them coming back year after year.
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Thank you to Howard County Recreation and Parks, Delegate Courtney Watson, Senator Katie Fry Hester, and Eagle Scout Matt Jamerson, from Howard High School, for your partnership on restoring and revitalizing this exemplar of our towns resiliency. |
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2020 Small Business Summit
Please join the Howard County Chamber, Economic Development Authority, and me for our 2020 Small Business Series. The seminar will provide local businesses with valuable information on financing, marketing and innovation strategies. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for resources and services available for our local, small businesses so they can remain successful and contribute to our overall economy.
I encourage small, local business owners and entrepreneurs to join me for the final edition of this series on October 21st, 9:30 am - 12:00pm; featuring Nat Alston, the Horizon Group, Ryan Miller, Principal Functions, Dean Hof, Howard County Purchasing, and more.
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50 Years of Running Brook Elementary! |
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Running Brook Elementary School is a loving place, that values each student and fosters an incredible environment in which to grow and thrive. It’s a place where each student has the support they need to reach their full potential and develop their unique talents and abilities. For 50 years, it has remained a place where you will find passionate teachers, incredible staff, and dedicated administrators who are always striving to reach the BEST in every student.
Congratulations to Principal Esposito, Running Brook PTA, our students, educators, and entire Panther community on 50 years of excellence!
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Decadent Dessert Bar
Something sweet is in Maple Lawn! Decadent Dessert Bar is a delicious destination for breakfast specialties, homemade pastries, desserts, and gourmet beverages. This dessert bar will enhance our local economy, and we are so thrilled to welcome this award-winning bakery to our community.
Congratulations to the Caprara family and thank you for bringing a little happiness to us all! For more information, please visit their website here. |
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$1.5 Mil in Rise to the Challenge Grant Awards
Howard County’s vibrant nonprofit organizations continue to give me hope – they show us every day that if we work together, we can tackle any obstacle. For many of the nonprofit organizations that provide vital services to our community, COVID has depleted their ability to fundraise – and forced needed in-person services online or to the sidelines.
Nonprofit staff and their organizations are known for being able to stretch every dollar and make it count – even in the best economic times. However, in times like these, when we are asking them, counting on them to do more with less, they need our help too. These Rise to the Challenge Grants help us recognize these innovative non-profits who provide jobs, value, and support to our community, and ensure that they too are able to survive.
Read more about the winners here. |
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EC Diner
We are so grateful to have wonderful establishments in Howard County who continuously support our community. Spiros Korologos and John Kanellopoulos had the vision of serving something for everyone using the freshest ingredients. From classic entrees, award-winning crab cakes, creative pancakes, all-day breakfast, hand-spun milkshakes, and more, EC Diner is dedicated to being more than just a diner.
I encourage us all to continue supporting our small, local restaurants by ordering carry-out or by dining-in. To see their menu, and place an order, please click here. |
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Congratulations Longfellow Elementary! |
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Longfellow Elementary has been a place where all students feel a sense of belonging, can discover the world around them, and nurture a lifelong love of learning. For 50 years, one thing has never changed at Longfellow – it's always had passionate teachers, incredible staff, and dedicated administrators who ensure students are PROUD; Persistent, Resilient, Optimistic, Unique, and Determined.
Congratulations to Principal Anderson, Assistant Principal Jackson, PTA President Brooke Dalesio, our educators, students, and the entire Soaring Eagles community on 50 years of Longfellow!
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Free Rides for Seniors
With flu season on the horizon, Neighbor Ride has launched a "Get Your Flu Shot Early" Campaign. Neighbor Ride will provide free rides to Howard County seniors (60+) who would like to receive their flu vaccination at a local physicians office, pharmacy, or community event.
As we continue to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important that all our residents are healthy and thriving, especially one of our high-risk populations. To schedule a ride, please visit www.neighborride.org/freeride/ or call (410) 884-7433.
Please note, this picture was taken prior to the current COVID-19 pandemic.
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Property Tax Credits
The Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) is extending the deadline to apply for 2020 Homeowners’ and Renters’ Property Tax Credits to October 31. These tax credits, including the Homestead Tax Credit, help residents feel more safe and secure in their homes, especially as we endure the current COVID-19 pandemic.
I encourage residents to apply for these important relief opportunities today here. |
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November Election Update
Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and we must ensure that we are providing safe and easy methods to make sure that all Howard County residents are engaged and aware of how to vote in the general election this November.
I’m grateful for the staff at the Howard County Board of Elections who have been working around the clock to help ensure voters, of all abilities, are able to cast their vote in an easy, and safe manner. We will continue to work and assist our Board of Elections through consistent communications ensuring that voter turnout Howard County is not impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Early voting begins Monday, October 26th, through Monday, November 2nd, and election day is November 3rd. To see the full list of early voting sites, click here, and click here to see election day voting sites.
Unlike the 2020 Primary Elections, voters will NOT automatically receive a mail-in ballot. Instead, voters will receive an application to receive their ballot through the mail. Voters MUST submit a request in order to receive their ballot by mail.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Howard County voters are urged to cast their vote by mail. To request your ballot right now, please click here. The deadline to request your mail-in ballot is October 20th.
Please note, mail-in ballots can also be returned to a ballot drop box which will be located at the Howard County Board of Elections Office, Meadowbrook Athletic Center, Marriotts Ridge High School, Reservoir High School, Long Reach High School, Wilde Lake High School, Lisbon Elementary School, Elkridge Landing Middle School, and Laurel Woods Elementary School.
To update your voter registration, register to vote, or check your voting status, please visit the State Board of Elections website here. |
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It's Spooky Season!
As the air becomes crisper, the leaves start falling, and stores begin filling their shelves with candy, we want to remind residents that we are still combatting a deadly pandemic. As Halloween slowly approaches, I encourage residents to begin planning now so we can ensure all festivities are done safely. In coordination with the Howard County Health Department, we have put together important guidance to help keep our children and communities safe.
The Howard County Health Department is recommending the following best practices for Halloween festivities and fall seasonal celebrations:
- Avoid large gatherings, parties, and events.
- Door-to-door trick or treating is not encouraged, but if done, should be done in household groups, keeping physical distance between other groups and using flashlights or glowsticks so walkers can be easily seen.
- Treats are encouraged to be left outside.
- Trick-or-treaters should wash hands (or use sanitizer) between homes and after touching surfaces and objects.
- Facial covering should be worn even if wearing a costume mask.
- Indoor activities are riskier than outdoor activities (indoor activities should be avoided).
- Pumpkin patch and hayrides should be conducted in small groups and non-family members should be physically distanced
- Indoor haunted houses, where it may be difficult to maintain physical distancing and enforce other mitigation strategies, should be restricted.
This year is a time for creativity not just with costumes, but in how to celebrate safely. Read more here. |
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Eviction Support
There is an immediate need for legal assistance to support tenants in demonstrating substantial loss of income-related to COVID-19. At the recommendation of Attorney General Brian Frosh’s Access to Justice COVID-19 task force, Howard County has provided funding for Maryland Legal Aid to assist residents facing eviction and other legal challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
We’ve seen more than 46,000 residents file for unemployment since March, and there are many of our neighbors who are unable to afford private attorney assistance on top of their daily needs.
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Rental Assistance
The longer this pandemic stretches on, the more urgent rental and eviction relief becomes. With more than 23,000 renters in the county, and more than 46,000 residents who have filed for unemployment, we are doing all that we can to keep people safely housed.
A second round of HoCo RISE rental assistance funding is currently available, providing an additional $800,000 in CARES Act funds to support residents struggling to pay rent due to the pandemic. As we continue to battle this virus, we must deliver the necessary relief and services to make sure no one falls through the cracks.
For more information, please click here.
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Food Distribution Map
Since the beginning of this pandemic, more than 46,000 Howard County residents have filed for unemployment or pandemic assistance, it’s clear access to food and groceries is one of the most urgent needs our residents are facing.
We’ve seen our community organizations, non-profits, and neighbors step-up to support one another, and we saw an opportunity to make it easier for folks to find what they need. This map clearly shows the daily options for groceries, food pantries, and meal pickups, and will hopefully reduce the stress for many people trying to figure out where to find the resources they need.
Visit the map today here. |
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Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) |
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Art Contest
In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), our Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) and Commission on Disabilities has launched an Art Contest. The contest theme: “ADA30 · Disability · Equity · Inclusion · One County · Accessible to All,” commemorates this landmark piece of legislation guarantees people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to participate in all aspects of American life. Artists young and old are invited to submit a piece of original artwork (up to two) that showcases some aspect of the contest’s theme.
To learn more about this Art Contest and for complete contest rules and entry form, check out www.howardcountymd.gov/ADA today. All artwork and entry forms must be received by no later than 11:59 p.m., Monday, November 30th.
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School Supply Giveaway
DCRS is hosting a School Supply Giveaway through a a Grab ‘n Go Set-Up (held in a socially distant and safe manner). Pre-registration is required. Supplies will be distributed on Saturday, October 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon in the PARKING LOT at each of the following four Howard County locations:
- Elkridge 50+ Center, 6540 Washington Boulevard, Elkridge, MD 21075
- Howard Crossing Apartment Homes, 8732 Town & Country Boulevard, Ellicott City, MD 21043
- Long Reach Village Center, 8775 Cloud Leap Court, Columbia, MD 21045
- North Laurel 50+ Center, 9411 Whiskey Bottom Road, Laurel, MD 20723
Residents must register in advance for this event to pick up school supplies. You may register up to four children to reserve a bag of school supplies (one per child), but you must enter them individually. Be sure to also indicate which pickup location you prefer (Limited quantities available at each location).
For additional information, call 410-313-6325 (English) or 410-313-2273 (Spanish).
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Annual Master Aging Event
Join our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) this Friday, October 23rd for its Master Aging “Virtual Showcase” event. Through this showcase event, participants will learn more about the wide range of information, programs and services available in Howard County to help older adults live healthier and more fulfilling lives, even during a pandemic. The showcase continues OAI Master Aging experience with live and prerecorded segments throughout the day to educate, inspire and entertain.
Stay tuned to OAI’s Master Aging website for the full schedule of showcase events and/or follow DCRS on Facebook for information about this event and other upcoming OAI virtual programs. To register in advance, visit https://oaishowcase.eventbrite.com and be sure to watch your email inbox the week of the event for the Webex login link and information.
If you have questions or need accommodations to participate, contact OAI at 410-313-6410 (voice/relay) or email aging@howardcountymd.gov.
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Virtual Offering Guide
For the past several months, OAI has been working hard to offer our older residents the resources they need to remain active and engaged during the COVID-19 pandemic. From exercise, cooking, social engagement and lifelong learning classes, there is something to help everyone get moving, get cooking and stay social this 2020. Check out OAI’s October Virtual Offering Guide for this month’s activities or visit OAI’s website to learn more about its services. For questions, contact OAI at aging@howardcountymd.gov.
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Office of Emergency Management
Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills
While earthquakes are a natural hazard we thankfully don’t experience too often here in Howard County, we are home to a number of thrust fault lines (check out this Geologic Formations map for their exact locations). In fact, according to the Maryland Geological Survey, 1993 was a very active year for earthquakes in Columbia. The last recorded earthquake in Howard County was in 2017 in Glenelg.
To make sure you know what to do the next time the earth decides to give a shake, I encourage you, your family and friends to join our Office of Emergency Management and the millions of people worldwide planning to take part in the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills this Thursday, October 15th at 10:15 a.m. To learn more about the drill, how to register and the “drop, cover and hold on” earthquake response technique, visit www.shakeout.org today.
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Department of Finance
Bond Sale Yields Millions in Savings
While we face unprecedented financial challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to practice sound fiscal management and smart stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Recently, I announced that a total of $109,185,000 of Refunding bonds had been sold. This year, Howard County saw significant savings compared to previous years, with an overall 1.68 percent interest rate and savings of $8.6 million. These bonds are highly valued in the marketplace in large part due to the County’s AAA credit rating, which was affirmed by all three bond rating agencies last month. The refunded bonds will save County taxpayers $6.2 million in interest payments and generated $2.4 million in savings for the Water & Sewer Fund.
Additionally, the County was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. For more than four decades, our professional finance staff has upheld the highest accounting standards to earn this recognition from its peers. I want to thank everyone on from our Finance Department for their hard work, award-winning excellence and continued efforts to make Howard County an innovative and efficient government.
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Department of Fire and Rescue
Participants Needed
Our Department of Fire and Rescue Services’ (HCDFRS) is looking for participants to assist with its Strategic Planning effort. On Sunday, November 1st and Thursday, November 5th, HCDFRS will be hosting a VIRTUAL input session to gain a better understanding from its stakeholders (county residents, businesses and organizations) regarding expectations, concerns and priorities when it comes to the department’s programs and services. Through this process, HCDFRS hopes to better serve all who live, work and play in Howard County.
Each session (you only need to attend one) will take place from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. If you are interested in participating, click HERE to apply.
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Weekly Training Exercises
As noted previously in The Ball Bulletin, HCDFRS’ Education and Training Bureau will be conducting weekly training exercises throughout the county now through December 1st. This month, HCDFRS will be holding training exercises every Tuesday and Thursday, while next month, exercises will take place Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s. These training exercise will involve theatrical smoke; there will be NO actual fire occurring during this training. For more information about these training exercises, including time and location, be sure to follow HCDFRS’ Facebook page and Twitter handle.
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Health Department
Additional COVID-19 Testing Site
Robust and consistent testing is one of our most important tools to understand the spread of COVID-19 and quickly isolate those who test positive. That's why Howard County is partnering with Quality First Urgent Care to operate an additional diagnostic drive-thru testing site at the Elkridge Volunteer Fire Department. The site is now open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. A doctor's order will not be required and while scheduled appointments will be available, they are not required. For information about COVID-19 testing and a complete list of testing sites in Howard County, check out the Health Department’s Coronavirus Testing – Information & Guidance website.
You can also find a list of Howard County General Hospital (HCGH) community testing sites on its website. For these sites, advance registration is strongly encouraged, but same-day registration is also accepted. For questions and/or to learn more about these community sites, contact HCGH at 410-740-7601 or email HCGH-J2BH@jhmi.edu.
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Department of Housing and Community Development |
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MIHU Enrollment Period
There are just two weeks left in our Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) program October open enrollment period. Held quarterly, this program provides affordable homeownership opportunities to individuals and families looking to call Howard County home and is an investment in our people.
If you are looking to call Howard County home, I encourage you to check out DHCD’s MIHU this month, during its enrollment period, to learn more about the program and all the great homeownership and rental opportunities that it offers. Click HERE to learn more or contact DHCD’s Housing Opportunities Programs Division at 410-313-6318 (select option two) or email housing@howardcountymd.gov.
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Office of Human Resources
Our Pension Oversight Commission provides critical analysis and input regarding the County’s Retirement Plan and the Police and Fire Employees’ Retirement Plan. If you are a Howard County resident with experience in pension administration and funding, I encourage you to apply today to join our Pension Oversight Commission. Together, we can ensure Howard County Government employees have a secure and stable retirement plan. For eligibility requirements and details on how to apply, click HERE. The deadline to apply is Friday, October 30th.
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Office of Human Rights
Calling all Howard County students, the County’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission is now seeking entries for its 2020 essay, oratory and poster contests. For the contests, the Commission is calling upon students to reflect upon Dr. King’s statement, and this year’s theme: “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” For the essay and oratory contests, middle and high school students must discuss a time when they took a stand against injustice and the impact of their actions. For the essay contest, students with disabilities may submit entries using other media and/or visual presentation. For the poster contest, elementary school students must compose an original piece of artwork using a medium of their choosing that shows their interpretation of this year’s theme. Contest entrees are DUE by no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, October 30th.
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In addition to its student essay, oratory and poster contests, our Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission is also seeking nominations for its annual “Living the Dream” Award. The annual award recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations (community, civic or religious) that promote the teachings and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., through community involvement in Howard County. For eligibility and nomination requirements and for details on how to submit your nomination, visit the Office of Human Rights “Contest and Awards” website. The DEADLINE for nominations is 5:00 p.m., Friday, October 30th.
For questions and/or more information, contact the Office of Human Rights at 410-313-6430 or email mlk@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Planning and Zoning
This past summer, I launched the planning process for the County’s next General Plan, HoCo By Design. This comprehensive long-range plan establishes the policies on how and where the County will develop and grow in response to evolving economic, environmental and social conditions. As part of the General Plan update process, last week I announced the names of the HoCo By Design Planning Advisory Committee members. These individuals will support the County’s extensive outreach efforts to not only engage the public in the planning process, but also share ideas based on members’ experiences, geographic regions they represent and subject matter expertise.
If you are looking to share your voice and vision for Howard County with our Department of Planning and Zoning (DPZ) and get involved with the revision of our General Plan, I invite you to check out these upcoming HoCo By Design meetings and activities:
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Wednesday, October 21st, 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. – BYOQ! Bring Your Own Questions. An opportunity to meet the consultants, hear project updates and offer input for HoCo By Design. To sign-up to participate in this virtual event, click HERE. The meeting will be live streamed and recorded. Additional information will be posted closer to the meeting date at www.hocobydesign.com.
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Wednesday, October 21st, 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. – BYOQ! Bring Your Own Questions. An opportunity to meet the consultants, hear project updates and offer input for HoCo By Design. To sign-up to participate in this virtual event, click HERE. The meeting will be live streamed and recorded. Additional information will be posted closer to the meeting date at www.hocobydesign.com.
- Monday, October 26th (anticipated launch date) – Community Ideas Exchange Workshop. An all-virtual, 3-D interactive workshop, in which participants will be asked to provide input and elaborate on their ideas for the different planning themes, development choices, design considerations, etc. This workshop will be open for a two-week 24/7 period.
In the meantime, be sure to follow our HoCo By Design Facebook page and/or visit the HoCo By Design website for more information to receive updates.
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Police Department
Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information in a fatal shooting that occurred last Sunday, October 4th in Columbia. At approximately 2:37 p.m., officers were called to the 9600 block of Basket Ring Road for a report that a subject had been shot outside a residence. Juan Michael Ross, 23, of Jessup, was pronounced dead at
the scene.
Detectives are looking into the possibility the incident may have been drug-related, and whether the involved parties were known to one another. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to please contact HCPD at 410-313-STOP or email HCPDcrimetips@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Public Works
Our Department of Public Works (DPW) will hold a virtual public meeting on Thursday, November 12th starting at 7:00 p.m., to present plans for the installation of a mid-block crossing on Main Street in Ellicott City. The project will include the construction of an ADA-compliant pedestrian crossing with related signage improvements near the Caplan’s building at 8125 Main Street. Weather permitting, the project is expected to begin in February 2021 and be completed in April 2021.
The meeting on the 12th will include an overview of the project, followed by a question and answer session. To participate in the meeting by computer on the 12th, go to www.webex.com and click “join;” the meeting number is 172 959 8352 and “password” is the password. To participate by phone, call 1-650-479-3207 (note, fees may apply) and enter the access code 172 959 8352.
Those unable to participate in the virtual meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Robert Hollenbeck with DPW at 410-313-5784 or email rhollenbeck@howardcountymd.gov.
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Department of Public Works – Construction Report
Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance projects that have been announced.
Columbia
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Broken Land Parkway/Twin Rivers Road Intersection Traffic Signal Activation – Newly installed traffic signal at the intersection of Broken Land Parkway and Twin Rivers Road scheduled to be activated around 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 22. To alert motorists of the new signal, the signal will be set to temporarily flash red in all directions approaching the intersection. Motorists approaching the flashing red signal should stop before proceeding through intersection when clear. The flash operation will switch to full color (green, yellow and red) on Tuesday, October 27 by 9:00 a.m.
Ellicott City
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Sucker Branch Stream Restoration (Capital Project D-1176) – Project to restore and stabilize approximately 1,200 linear feet of stream channel near the 3300 block of Rogers Avenue that has been heavily impacted by storm water and eroded significantly. The project is not expected to impact the flow of vehicular traffic in the area. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by late March 2021.
Laurel
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Stephens Road Closure – Stephens Road between Whiskey Bottom Road and Gorman Road will be CLOSED Wednesday, October 21st and Thursday, October 22nd from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. both days to allow for the new water line on the north side of the bridge to be connected to public water service. During the closure, traffic will follow a clearly marked detour using Whiskey Bottom Road, US 1 and Gorman Road. For updates, call 410-313-3638 (recording).
Woodbine
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Woodbine Morgan Road Culvert Pipe Replacement – Project to replace three failed pipe culverts running under Woodbine Morgan Road. During the project, Woodbine Morgan Road will be closed to thru traffic. Traffic will follow a clearly marked detour using Woodbine Road, Old Frederick Road and Morgan Station Road. A recorded message at 410-313-3637 will carry project updates. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by mid-November.
To learn about DPW Capital Projects currently underway, visit https://bit.ly/2V6K5B6. Searchable by project category and street name, from this site you’ll find additional project details, including news releases about the project. You can also contact DPW’s Customer Service Office at 410-313-3440 or email publicworks@howardcountymd.gov for further assistance.
If you have questions or are interested in finding out about a State road (numbered roadway) project in your area, visit the Maryland State Highway Administration’s website and search by “County” to learn more about State road projects in Howard County.
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Maryland State Highway Administration
Starting this month, Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) will begin work to relocate its underground gas lines along MD 103 (Montgomery Road) between US 29 and the Long Gate Shopping Center in preparation for a Maryland State Highway Administration’s (SHA) widening project in the area. BGE relocation work will take place Sunday through Friday, 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., when vehicular volumes are lower to limit the impact on area traffic. During this time, access to all businesses and residences will be maintained. If any work requires a service outage to a home or business, BGE will directly coordinate with the property owner. Weather permitting, this gas line work is expected to be completed this year. Additional utility work will follow with all relocations scheduled to be finalized by early 2022.
SHA’s MD 103 widening project between US 29 and the Long Gate Shopping Center will construct an additional lane in both directions of MD 103 to relieve congestion and enhance safety. In addition, SHA will add a “Do Not Block Entrance” sign and provide an area in the middle of MD 103 to improve left turn access for residents on Scottsman Road. The project is currently in the Design phase, with construction scheduled to start in Spring 2022, pending available funding.
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Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Environmental Services
In case you missed our document shredding event on October 10th, no worries, as our Department of Public Works' Bureau of Environmental Services is hosting a second document shredding event Saturday, October 31st at the Long Gate Park & Ride (exit 1A off of MD 100) in Ellicott City. The event will take place rain or shine from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., OR until the trucks are full. Residents may bring up to three bags or boxes of paper to be shredded; however, residents should ONLY bring items that contain personal information. Junk mail, catalogs and office paper should be set out for regular curbside recycling. NOTE, face coverings and physical distancing will be enforced.
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Department of Recreation & Parks |
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Two Historic Landmarks Reopen
Recently, I joined our Department of Recreation & Parks to celebrate the completion of renovations and reopening of to two historic landmarks in Old Ellicott City. The celebration began at the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum, where we marked the completion of renovations to the museum’s iconic C-2149 caboose and Freight Room diorama. In 2018, Recreation & Parks received two grants from the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority to allow for the restoration of the caboose and diorama. The C-2149 caboose was restored using historically accurate materials and interpretive signage, while the restoration of the Freight House diorama involved a comprehensive update showing the first 13 miles of railroad in the United States. Check out the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum website for more information about the museum and its hours of operation.
After the Museum, we ventured up Main Street to officially reopen the Thomas Isaac Log Cabin. Constructed around 1780 on nearby Merryman Street, the Thomas Isaac Log Cabin commemorates the early stages of European development in the Patapsco River Valley. In the 1870s, it served as an important resource for Ellicott City’s African American community. In the 1980s, the cabin was dismantled and rebuilt on the historic Barnard Fort House property, where it stood until the summer of 2018.
Following the 2018 flood, the cabin was temporarily moved to Parking Lot F while Ellicott Mills Drive was reconstructed. This past spring, the cabin moved back to its previous location atop a new foundation. The proposed drainage improvements in Ellicott City as part of my EC Safe and Sound plan and the new foundation sitting one foot above Ellicott City’s 100-year flood elevation should keep the cabin safe from future floods. To learn more about the cabin, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/HistoricSites.
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Halloween Fun
All month long, Recreation & Parks is offering family-friendly, spooktacular Halloween fun!
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Saturday, October 24th: Join Recreation & Parks for its annual "Truck or Treat" event. Modified due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, children will the opportunity to participate in an "I Spy" scavenger hunt, have their picture taken in front of trucks, tractors, emergency vehicles and more, and receive a pre-filled treat bag. Tickets are $5 per child and adults are free; however, adults must obtain a free ticket to attend. Each member of your party must register in advance for a one-hour time slot to attend and spots are limited, so visit https://www.mt.cm/truck-or-treat-2 today to purchase your ticket.
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Saturday, October 24th and Sunday, October 25th: Check out Robinson Nature Center’s Halloween Tricks, Treats and Trees program in-person or take-home kit event. Join in a guided adventure where nature's "tricks" are revealed at delightful stations throughout the Nature Center and grounds or bring the magic and fun home with a curated Halloween kit comes with pre-planned activities and all the materials needed to recreate a Halloween adventure in your own home. To learn more and/or to register, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/RNCtrickortreat.
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Fall Music Programs
This fall register your child for convenient online music lessons with Learn Now Music. Open to young musicians in kindergarten through fifth grade, choose from piano, violin, drums or guitar classes offered over Zoom. Participants are introduced to instrument fundamentals and theory through musical games, special extension curriculum-based activities, listening excerpts and more. Instruments are available to rent for a fee. For a full list of upcoming classes and/or to learn more, visit https://tinyurl.com/LearnNowMusicFall2020.
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Tree Removal
REMINDER: Recreation & Parks is currently removing 150 dead ash trees along the Dorsey Hall pathway system (beginning at Columbia Road and ending at Larkspring Row) in Ellicott City. The trees were destroyed by invasive emerald ash borer beetles and pose a potential danger to pedestrians and cyclists. The resulting wood and debris from the project will remain on site to allow for nutrient recycling and local wildlife habitat. Weather permitting, the work is expected to be completed by late October.
If you have any questions and/or concerns about this project, please contact Sean Poholsky at 410-313-0701 or email sppoholsky@howardcountymd.gov.
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Office of Transportation
As part of its planning study and preliminary design for a shared-use (pedestrian and bicycle) pathway along Robert Fulton Drive, our Office of Transportation will be hosting a virtual public meeting this Thursday, October 22nd. The goals of this project are to improve bicycle and pedestrian access to Columbia Gateway from surrounding communities and from Columbia Gateway to nearby "lunch hour" restaurants and retail destinations. The project also seeks to connect to nearby projects on Oakland Mills Road, McGaw Road and Snowden River Parkway, as well as the Columbia pathway network. Set to take place from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., the meeting will provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about the project’s proposed design and provide feedback. For more information and to register for this public meeting, click HERE.
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Maryland Statewide Transit Plan
The Office of Transportation is currently working with the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) to develop the Maryland Statewide Transit Plan (STP). A 50-year vision for transit, the STP is based on existing regional and local plans, proposed projects and analysis of future activity centers, demographics and transit needs. The plan builds upon the transit services that exist today and creates a framework for coordinated transit service and customer experience.
MDOT MTA is developing the STP with input from a broad range of partners, including other state agencies, local and regional governments, public and private transit providers, businesses, non-governmental organizations and the public. If you are interested in helping advance Howard County’s transit needs for the future, I invite you to complete the plans online survey to share with MDOT MTA your priorities for and experience with transit. The survey is available now through October 25th. To learn more about the STP and/or to sign up to receive updates on the plan from MDOT MTA, visit its STP website or contact MDOT MTA STP at mtastp@mta.maryland.gov.
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BikeAround Downtown
This upcoming weekend is BikeAround Downtown and OoT has partnered with the Downtown Columbia Partnership to host this 7.8-mile course that invites riders to come enjoy Downtown Columbia’s bike infrastructure. All are invited to hop on a bike and come enjoy the trails and pathways of Downtown and Wilde Lake, while starting and ending in ColorBurst Park in the new Merriweather District of Downtown. To register for this year’s event and/or for more information, click HERE.
For the weekend, Howard County Bikeshare has created a special membership for the weekend for people who don’t own a bike or have one in need of repair. The offer includes 60 minutes of ride time at no cost for every trip; after 60 minutes, fees will incur at 15 cents per minute. To claim your "BikeAround Downtown" membership, check out the Howard County Bikeshare app today.
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