|
Dear Friends,
Join our Department of Recreation & Parks at our community centers, including a new location in Elkridge, for our free drop-in program for young people between 11 and 17. Drop-in activities include free pizza and snacks, sports, video games and more.
Join us at:
To learn more, click HERE.
| |
|
The PEACE Project
Here in the United States, we have one of the highest rates of maternal mortality among high-income countries and rates have been increasing, including in Maryland. Sadly, incidence of Severe Maternal Morbidity events - life threatening conditions and complications from labor and delivery - have been steadily increasing since 2019. In 2021, Howard County’s preterm birth rate rose to 11 percent, according to the March of Dimes, higher than many neighboring jurisdictions and with significant racial disparities, especially among Black women.
We cannot be complacent while disturbing trends in maternal deaths rise, and this is an important step in building a healthier community for all. To help combat this rising health concern and ensure our pregnant residents, families and healthcare provides have access to information about prenatal, postpartum and infant resources available here in Howard County, the Howard County Health Department (HCHD) has launched its Perinatal Equity and Care for Everyone (P.E.A.C.E.) Project navigator program.
Provided at no cost and open to all pregnant and postpartum people in the county, the goal of the P.E.A.C.E. Project it to improve improving reproductive, maternal and infant health in Howard County. The P.E.A.C.E. Project’s Perinatal Care Navigator assists clients, families or providers in determining which services best meet the client’s needs and interests. The Navigator then links the client to community resources/services and follows up on the outcome of the referral.
Through our record funding of $3 million over the last two fiscal years, we are doing our part to provide more access to quality prenatal and maternal health care.
To learn more about the P.E.A.C.E. Project, click HERE or to request a referral into the P.E.A.C.E. Project, click HERE.
| |
Energizing Small Businesses
Uplifting our local small businesses to thrive can help uplift our community. Howard County is proud to partner with BGE and provide significant funding into the Energizing Small Business Grant Program, which will extend funding to nearly 30 more businesses in our community.
When business leaders and government officials partner to support our local businesses, it creates more opportunities for our community to prosper. To learn more and/or apply, click HERE.
| |
|
SJoining the Fight Against Climate Change
Howard County is thrilled to join the National Building Performance Standards Coalition and the incredible group of thoughtful leaders working to reduce our collective carbon footprint.
| |
We must and we will lead the way in becoming more energy independent. Now is our time, working with Governor Wes Moore and his administration, to find creative climate solutions to ensure the health and safety of our county, state, nation, and planet for future generations to come. | |
|
Happy Sundae!
In celebration of National Ice Cream Day on Sunday, July 16th, I had the pleasure of visiting Cindy’s Soft Serve in Elkridge to get their famous soft serve. If you missed out on celebrating this national day yesterday, I encourage you to stop by your favorite local ice cream shop, creamery or purveyor of frozen treats this summer in support of our local businesses. Your sweet tooth is sure to thank you!
| |
|
One Market at a Time
It was wonderful to stop by the Clarksville Farmer’s Market at the Clarksville Commons. Every week, there are dozens of incredible small, local businesses who sell local produce and crafts such as The Salvaged Stitch, Beyond Rhetoric, Hensing’s Hilltop Acres farm and more!
By choosing to shop at our local farmer’s market, we are not only supporting our local farms and businesses, but also our economy and environment. The Clarksville Farmer’s Market is every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
| |
|
Holy Smokes! An Award-Winning LEED Gold Certified Building
The Waterloo Fire Station opened in 2022 to address community safety needs and meet the demands of a modern firefighting and EMS force. It is the result of historic investments since 2018 to maintain and grow our public safety infrastructure to serve Elkridge, Jessup, East Columbia and surrounding communities.
Watch this video to see why this LEED Gold certified building won one of our record 51 National Association of Counties awards!
| |
|
A Home Away from Home
Howard County is continually recognized as the best place to live, work, play and grow because of our emerging sense of community and incredible amenities. Places like the Residence Inn Columbia help visitors from across the nation and world feel welcome and right at home. It was wonderful to join Tia, Zuzana and the entire Residence Inn team to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the hotel.
Congratulations, and I wish your ongoing success! If you’re looking for a place to escape, that’s close to home, book your next stay HERE.
| |
|
Embracing a Clean and Energy Independent Environment for All
Last week, I was fortunate to spend the afternoon with Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain at our phenomenal Robinson Nature Center. Howard County is a national leader in climate resiliency, emission reduction goals and increasing solar production, as demonstrated in our HoCo Climate Forward and Ellicott City Safe and Sound Plans.
We are grateful for Secretary McIlwain’s statewide leadership and sense of urgency on climate action, energy independence and other environmental initiatives. A collaborative partnership with Governor Moore’s Administration will not only improve the lives of Howard County residents, but all Marylanders and set the example for our nation. Together, we will continue our partnership to develop innovative initiatives that deliver positive outcomes as we embrace a clean and energy independent environment for all.
| |
|
Looking for Tree-mendous Locations
Are you Looking to plant a new tree? Now's the perfect time! Our Department of Recreation & Parks has several programs to provide free trees, and possibly planting services, for qualifying Howard County properties. Residents are then responsible for the care and maintenance of the trees.
To learn more about and apply for the Turf to Trees (1.5 acre-10 acre properties), Stream ReLeaf (properties near streams), and Tree Canopy (planting neighborhoods with lower tree coverage) program, click HERE.
| |
|
Calling All Restaurants!
Are you or do you know an amazing Howard County restaurant that everyone should try? Want to get the word out about a Howard County restaurant in a proven way during this 15th annual Summer Restaurant Weeks?
I strongly encourage our local restaurants to sign up for this summer’s most tasty festivities. The event starts TODAY and goes through July 30th and is the perfect time to highlight what your restaurant has to offer. Sign up today by clicking HERE.
| |
|
Don’t Miss a “Beet”
It was a pleasure to join Daye and her entire family to celebrate the grand opening of Pure Green Juice and Smoothie in Columbia! Not missing a “beet,” Pure Green Dobbin gathers the most nutrient-rich superfoods on the planet and transform them into handcrafted and made-to-order smoothies, açaí bowls, pitaya bowls, cold pressed juices and cold pressed shots that are mouthwateringly delicious.
Congratulations, and I wish your ongoing success! To learn more about Pure Green Dobbin, click HERE.
| |
|
Public Water Voluntary Water Restrictions
Due to a fire at a water pumping station in Baltimore County, we are asking our residents on public water to assist with the following voluntary water restrictions as requested by Baltimore City’s Department of Public Works (DPW).
As noted by Baltimore City’s DPW, this request for ‘voluntary water restriction’ does not include any need to limit normal water usage for drinking, cooking or cleaning.
For updates, click HERE.
| |
|
Queen Anne’s County, Where Shore Living Begins
It was a pleasure to visit Queen Anne’s County with Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Executive Director Michael Sanderson. Queen Anne’s County is not only where shore living begins, but its leaders are respected and appreciated across the region through several boards. I have the honor of serving with Commissioner James Moran as Vice Chair of the Baltimore Metropolitan Council and Commissioner Jack Wilson as Second Vice-President of MACo.
We had a productive dialogue, which included discussions about being more energy independent while respecting our local jurisdictions and ensuring all our counties can effectively implement the important outcomes related to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and expanding opportunities for all. While there, I also visited the POW MIA memorial in honor of remembering, accounting for and repatriating all recoverable remains of our POWs or those MIA as well as the statue of Queen Anne, the namesake of the county.
| |
|
The Birthplace of Two Incredible Historic Figures
It was so incredible to also visit Talbot County with MACo Executive Director Michael Sanderson as part of my tour as MACo President. During our discussion with the council, we touched on body worn cameras, the legalization of Cannabis and how it effects our businesses and encouraging more robust regional partnerships.
Talbot County is also the birthplace of two incredible historic figures; Frederick Douglass and Columbia’s very own Jim Rouse. During our visit, we stopped by the Frederick Douglass on the Hill Mural which is a tribute to Douglass’ life and enduring influence on future generations. We also visited Jim Rouse’s very first redeveloped mall – the Talbot Town Shopping Center – which hasn’t been developed or changed since it was dedicated in 1957. It was also humbling to visit Talbot County’s Veterans Memorials, which serve as a reminder that our freedoms are never free nor guaranteed.
| |
|
Engaging and Transformation Youth Engagement Programs Now Available!
This past week, I announced more than 30 youth programming opportunities for young people in Howard County of all ages. Available in every part of the county, these transformational and free programs are supported by our Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) Grants. These transformative YEP! programs will provide more opportunities for our young people to recreate, engage and grow with each other in safe, supported and nurturing environments.
To learn more, click HERE.
| |
STEM-Focused Learning
It was a pleasure to celebrate the grand opening of the Young Horizons School in Elkridge last Monday. This local, family-owned childcare center provides excellent care through strengthening skills with a focus on bridging the gap between the needs of a child and what they learn to prepare them for academic success. From six-weeks to four-years-old, the Young Horizons School will help unlock your child’s potential.
Congratulations Anil and Radhika, and I wish your ongoing success! Learn more about the school at https://theyounghorizons.com/.
| |
|
Staying Vigilant and Prepared
Howard County is a national center of innovation and transformation, as demonstrated by our record 51 National Association of Counties Awards in 2023. One of these awards was our Office of Emergency Management’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System for Ellicott City. Last Sunday’s storms were a reminder that we must stay vigilant and prepared in the instance imminent or active flash flooding. This tone alert system helps us ensure our Historic Ellicott City residents aren’t only safe but feel safe.
See more how the tone alerts work in this video!
| |
|
Join My Team!
My office is currently looking to fill several vacant positions. To learn more and apply, please click the respective link below.
-
Administrative Analyst, Fleet - Responsible for the day-to-day management of the County's new motor pool and RFID system. Serves as liaison and management point of contact between Fleet/ County Administration and Departmental Representatives.
-
Civil/Human Rights Investigator, OHRE - Has primary responsibility for investigating complaints of alleged discrimination in the areas of housing, employment, public accommodations, financing and law enforcement.
I encourage interested persons to apply today! To find a full listing of available positions, please click here.
| |
|
Innovating with EDA
-
Tuesday, July 25th, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. – Women's Catalyst Circle: Reigning in Success: This month’s Women’s Catalyst Circle is designed to empower women to embrace their inner power and step into their full leadership potential. In this immersive and empowering Circle experience, you will embark on a journey of self-discovery, tapping into your inherent power, confidence, and authority.
-
Wednesday, August 23rd, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. – Design Thinking for Entrepreneurs: This four-part seminar held Wednesday evenings from August 23- September 13, will give you the tools you need to cut through ambiguity and move forward with confidence. Vance MacEwen, co-founder of Greatest Possible Good, delivers interactive workshops taking you through the design thinking process.
-
Thursday, August 24th, 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. – Global Marketing Outlook: Essential Insights You Can't Afford to Miss: Don't miss this comprehensive exploration of the evolving marketing landscape, brimming with immense potential to elevate your business success to new heights.
-
Thursday, August 31st, 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. – Understanding Product Development: From Idea to Market Launch: Physical product development requires large investments. Understanding the process, possible pitfalls and defining the requirements early in the process will help improve chances for success. A Maryland product development expert will share his experience and detail the steps taken to make an idea into a manufacturable product. Bring your idea, problems and be ready for an interactive discussion.
-
Wednesday, September 6th, noon to 1:00 p.m. – Creating a Well-Designed Retirement Plan For Your Small Business: Join us as we look at a case study of a solopreneur with $200,000 in revenue and how a well-designed retirement plan helped him minimize taxes and get on the path to early retirement. Learn how these tools can help you prepare for retirement as well.
-
Thursday, September 21st, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. – 2023 End of Summer Bash: Early bird tickets are now on sale for the Maryland Innovation Center's End of Summer Bash at Merriweather Lakehouse! You can purchase your early bird tickets by September 8th. Ticket sales close September 20th.
| |
Department of Community Resources and Services | |
|
Help Us Recognize Those Who Support Disability Rights in Howard County
Our Commission on Disabilities is seeking nominations for its 2023 annual awards program. These awards recognize individual achievement and outstanding efforts of those who advance full participation in community life for all residents, while promoting the spirit and intent of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other disability rights laws.
The deadline to submit a nomination is Monday, August 21st. While nomination forms are available online, if you need the form in an alternate format, please contact Erica Lewis at 410-313-6402 (voice/relay) or email cod@howardcountymd.gov. For additional information, click HERE.
| |
|
UNITY in the Community Resource Fair
A fun event for the whole family, I invite you to join our Department of Community Resources and Services’ (DCRS) Office of the Local Children’s Board next Saturday, July 29th for UNITY in the Community Resource Fair, its second in a series of three community resource fairs the Board is hosting this year.
Set to take place from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the 29th at the East Columbia Library Park, participants will have access to family services and community resources while enjoying musical entertainment, a moon bounce for the kids, food giveaways, arts and crafts, raffles, and prizes. Admission is FREE, so be sure not to miss out on this family fun event.
| |
|
Summer Ideas for Kids and Support for Families
If you are looking for ideas for how to ease the transition into this coming new school year as your family enjoys the fleeting days of summer, I encourage you to check out DCRS’ Office of Children and Families’ (OCF) newest issue of its Parent Pages. This month’s issue is full of ideas to support continued learning all summer long, plus fun family activities, kindergarten readiness tips and July parent workshops.
In fact, here are just some of the upcoming workshops for parents:
-
Tomorrow, July 18th, OCF will host a FREE virtual “Travel Activities for Children” workshop from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., where participants will learn how to prepare hands-on activities to keep their children engaged, learning and having fun while getting from “here to there.” To register for this workshop (please note, you must register by 5:00 p.m. today, July 17th to participate), click HERE.
-
On Monday, July 24th, OCF will host a FREE virtual “The Basics for Children” workshop at 7:00 p.m. The Basics Howard County provides information to help parents make the most of the first five years of their child's life. Participants will learn about the five pillars for successful interactions and sign up for the free Basics Insights text messaging program. To register for this workshop (must register by 5:00 p.m., Sunday, July 23rd to participate), click HERE.
| |
|
Get Connected with the Affordable Connectivity Program
The Federal Communications Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) helps low-income households afford at-home broadband service and a computer/tablet so they can access the internet and work, complete schoolwork, pay bills, etc. from the comfort of their own home. The ACP provides up to a $30 per month discount on internet service and a discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet.
Next Thursday, July 27th, I invite you – especially our older county residents, to join DCRS’ Office on Aging and Independence (OAI) from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. at OAI’s East Columbia 50+ Center, for a FREE enrollment event to assist you in determining whether your household qualifies for the ACP.
To register and schedule your appointment for this event, contact Malarie Burgess, OAI's digital inclusion specialist, at mburgess@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-6542 (voice/relay). Walk-ins are welcome; however, may incur a wait.
| |
|
Avoid Medicare Scams and Fraud
If you are in the market for Medicare, I encourage you to join DCRS’ Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) next Wednesday, July 26th at 11:00 a.m. at Kings Contrivance Community Association’s Amherst House for a discussion about Medicare scams and fraud to look out for. OCP will be joined by representatives from the County’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to provide an overview of common types of Medicare fraud and scams, and what to look out for when researching Medicare Advantage Plans.
SHIP’s trained staffed and Certified Medicare Counselors provide free, unbiased assistance for questions or concerns about what Medicare covers, prescription drug plans, Medicare Advantage/health plans and Medigap policies, billing, claims, denials and appeals, and programs that help with Medicare costs. SHIP also offers educational Medicare presentations remotely. For its upcoming schedule, click HERE or to learn more about how SHIP can help you, click HERE.
For questions and/or more information about this free seminar, contact OCP at 410-313-6420.
If you have a question or need assistance with another consumer issue, contact OCP at 410-313-6420 or email consumer@howardcountymd.gov. For assistance in Korean, Mandarin or Spanish, please call 410-313-3820.
| |
|
The HoCo Community Chat July Episode
For this month’s HoCo Community Chat podcast episode, DCRS Director Jackie Scott is first joined by OAI Administrator Ofelia Ross and OCP Administrator Tracy Rezvani to discuss what is consumer protection and the latest local scams and exploitive behaviors targeting residents. During the second half, Jackie is joined by retired Howard County police officer and founder of the Center for Elder Justice and Education André Lingham to discuss the specific targeting of older adults.
HoCo Community Chat is DCRS’ new and entertaining way to engage residents in great conversations on how to live their best lives in Howard County. Be sure to check out HoCo Community Chat wherever you listen to your podcasts.
| |
Office of Emergency Management | |
|
This Quarter’s LEPC Meeting
Our Office of Emergency Management (OEM) will be hosting its next Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) meeting this Thursday, July 20th from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. at our George Howard Building in Ellicott City, with a virtual participation option included also available. This quarters meeting is free and open to the public and will include the Department of Fire and Rescue Services’ quarterly Hazardous Materials Spill Report, updates from OEM and a "Amateur Radio – It's More Than Just a Hobby" presentation by Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service and Amateur Radio Emergency Service. To register to participate in this meeting, whether in-person or virtually, click HERE.
The purpose of the LEPC is to enhance Howard County’s preparedness and response to hazardous materials incidents by involving the government, private business, non-profit organizations and residents in planning and preparing for such an incident.
For questions or more information about this committee or meeting, email emergencymanagement@howardcountymd.gov.
| |
Department of Fire and Rescue Services | |
|
Sign-Up for Fireworks Text Alerts
With summer in full swing, our Department of Fire and Rescue Services (DFRS) is launching a new text alert system for permitted firework displays in Howard County. All permitted displays are approved through the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal and DFRS Fire Marshals are present the day-of to ensure the safety of the event.
To sign up for alerts, text "JOIN" to (410)-402-5308.
Don’t want to sign up for messages? No worries! DFRS will continue to post firework notifications on its social media pages (Facebook and Twitter).
| |
|
Is Your House Number Visible?
Looking for an easy project to do with your family this summer? Head outside to the street side of your residence and take a look to see if you can easily and quickly find your house number. If not, there’s a good chance neither can our first responders.
Whether the address number is on your house, mailbox or curb, clearly visible numbers make it easier for DFRS to find you in the event of an emergency.
Also, don't forget that emergencies happen at night too. So be sure to use reflective numbers or lighting to make sure we can find your residence in the darkness of the night.
| |
|
Trainee Class 38 Applications
If you are interested in becoming a firefighter with DFRS, mark your calendars! The department will begin accepting applications for its Trainee Class 38 at 8:00 a.m. on July 31st and will accept applications until 5:00 p.m. on August 4th. During this time, the link to apply will be available at https://governmentjobs.com/careers/howardcounty.
In the meantime, to learn more about a firefighter career with DFRS, check out the department’s “Recruitment” website.
| |
Howard County Health Department | |
|
Maryland Medicaid Redetermination Underway
Do you or a family member currently have health insurance through Medicaid or the Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP)? Redetermination is underway for many who have Maryland Medicaid. It is important to check in to your account to make sure your contact information, including your mailing address, is up to date so that you can receive important notices on any changes to your health insurance coverage. For help, call the Howard County Health Department at 410-313-5845 or email medicaid@howardcountymd.gov with questions or for more information.
| |
Department of Housing and Community Development | |
|
Now Accepting Moderate Income Housing Unit Homeownership Applications
Our Department of Housing and community Development (DHCD) is NOW accepting applications for its Moderate Income Housing Unit (MIHU) program’s July open enrollment period for homeownership. Held quarterly throughout the year, this inclusionary zoning program provides individuals and families the opportunity to purchase quality new homes at reduced sale prices and rents to those eligible.
Applications are available online and en español también! Completed applications can be submitted either online, mailed to 9820 Patuxent Woods Drive, Suite 224, Columbia, MD, 21046, or dropped off at DHCD’s Patuxent Woods Drive office by appointment only. The DEADLINE to apply is by 4:00 p.m., Monday, July 31st.
On DHCD’s “Open Enrollment” website, interested applicants can find a presentation from a previous homeownership informational workshop. For frequently asked questions and answers explaining the program’s eligibility requirements and application process visit the MIHU Program website or email moderateincomehousing@howardcounty.md.
Please keep in mind, if you are interested in DHCD’s MIHU rental program, prospective renters may apply directly to a participating rental community at any time during the year. For more information on the MIHU rental program, including a list of participating communities, please visit DHCD’s MIHU rental website.
For questions and/or more information about the MIHU program, contact DHCD’s Housing Opportunities Programs Division at 410-313-6318 and select option two, email moderateincomehousing@howardcountymd.gov or visit DHCD’s open enrollment website.
| |
Office of Human Rights and Equity | |
|
Reading Human Rights – Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance
Reading Human Rights is an award-winning monthly book discussion group hosted by our Office of Human Rights and Equity’s (OHRE) and Howard County Library System (HCLS) that encourages literary exploration and community dialogue around a variety of human rights concerns. It explores works of fiction and non-fiction to teach community members the various ways individuals, cultures and communities celebrate their identities and combat injustice.
For its July book discussion – to be held in person at HCLS East Columbia Branch next Tuesday, July 25th at 6:30 p.m., OHRE will discuss J.D. Vance’s Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis. Vance’s book provides readers with a personal analysis of a culture in crisis – that of white working-class Americans. A former marine and Yale Law School graduate, Vance offers a powerful account of growing up in a poor Rust Belt town that offers a broader, probing look at the struggles of America's white working class.
To secure your seat for this month’s event, click HERE today to register.
| |
|
Howard County's Racial Equity Framework and How We Move Forward
Join OHRE’s Equity and Restorative Practices Manager Dr. Denise Boston and HCLS’ Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Dr. Kelly Clark next Thursday’s July 27th for a conversation on the Racial Equity Framework for Howard County and how we move forward. The discussion will take place from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. on the 27th at HCLS’ Central branch in Columbia.
To register for this event, click HERE.
| |
|
Nominees Sought for Human Rights Commission’s 2023 Awards
If you know an individual or community organization who has made significant contributions to human and civil rights in Howard County, I encourage you to nominate them today for our Human Rights Commission's 2023 James E. Henson, Sr. and Jean W. Toomer Individual, Dr. Murray Simon Student and Colette Roberts Organization awards. To learn more about these awards and/or for a nomination form, visit HERE. The nomination deadline is Thursday, August 31st at 5:00 p.m.
| |
|
Crossing Guard Applicants Sought
With the start of the 2023-2024 school year less than two months away, Howard County Police Department (HCPD) is looking for individuals interested in becoming a crossing guard. This is a part-time, contingent, non-benefitted position for 10 to 20 hours a week and paying $18 an hour. No experience needed and uniforms are provided.
If you would like to help HCPD keep our kids safe this school year, apply HERE.
| |
|
Maryland Cannabis Law Changes Now in Effect
HCPD is reminding residents that changes to Maryland’s law pertaining to the purchase, possession and usage of cannabis in the state are now in effect. To help residents better understand these changes, HCPD has put together a Frequently Asked Questions page to help answer common questions and provide link to the Maryland Cannabis Administration's website for more comprehensive information.
| |
|
The Community Athletic Program’s Traveling Trailer is Back!
HCPD's Community Athletic Program (CAP) is back and coming to community area near you this summer! Residents of all ages are invited to meet up with HCPD School Resources Officers at locations throughout the county this summer to check out all the fun, FREE activities CAP's traveling trailer has to offer. To learn more about this program and/or for a complete summer CAP schedule, check out its "Youth Programs" website today!
| |
Department of Public Works | |
Bureau of Environmental Service’s Stormwater Management Division | |
|
Signal Hill Stormwater Pond Retrofit Project Public Meeting
Our Department of Public Works’ (DPW) Stormwater Management Division will hold a public meeting next Wednesday, July 27th at 6:00 p.m., in the Lucille Clifton Rooms A/B at HCLS’s East Columbia branch, to present plans to repair an existing dry stormwater pond located 8916 Twelve Sons Court in Jessup. The project will include the replacement of the pond’s riser and spillway pipe, creation of a shallow wetland within the pond to provide water quality treatment, and stabilization of inflow channels and pond outfall with rock structures. Areas disturbed during construction will be replanted. Weather permitting, the project is expected to start in June 2024 and take seven months to complete.
The informational meeting will include an overview of the project, followed by an open discussion. County staff and representatives from the project’s design consultant will be on hand to answer any questions and gather public comments.
Those unable to attend the meeting who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Radhika Wijetunge with DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-6429 or email rwijetunge@howardcountymd.gov.
An interpreter for people who are deaf or hard of hearing will be available if requested seven working days prior to the meeting. Please call DPW at 410-313-3440 (voice) or use Relay at 7-1-1, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
| |
|
Patapsco Park Estates Pond Repair Public Meeting
DPW’s Stormwater Management Division will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 10th at 6:00 p.m. in the Avalon Room of HCLS’s Miller branch, to present plans to repair an existing pond located near 2041 Eliza Dorsey Lane in Ellicott City. The project will include replacement of the old metal outlet structure with a new concrete outlet structure that has a longer service life and will bring the pond into compliance with current Maryland Department of the Environment requirements. Weather permitting, the project is expected to begin in fall 2023 and be completed by spring 2024.
This informational meeting will include an overview of the project’s design, followed by an open discussion. County staff and the project’s design consultant will be on hand to answer any questions and gather public comments.
Those unable to attend the meeting or who would like to view the plans and/or have questions, should contact Mr. Bill Liu with DPW’s Stormwater Management Division at 410-313-6416 or email bliu@howardcountymd.gov.
Again, an interpreter for people who are deaf or hard of hearing will be available if requested seven working days prior to the meeting. Please call DPW at 410-313-3440 (voice) or use Relay at 7-1-1, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
| |
|
Residential Water Meter Replacement Program Resumes
EFFECITVE IMMEDIATELY, DPW’s Bureau of Utilities has resumed its residential water meter replacement program. As existing water meters in the system are approaching their useful life, with some already failing resulting in the need to estimate water bills, it is vital these meters (at no cost to county water customers) be replaced to ensure accurate and timely water usage data is obtained.
To complete the water meter replacement program in a timely manner, the County has contracted with Vanguard Utility Service for assistance. Residents will receive notification in the mail prior to meter installers arriving in their neighborhood. This notification will include contact information for Vanguard Utility Service so residents can schedule their water meter replacement appointment. Appointments are currently available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday appointments will also be available, but on a first come, first-served basis. Appointments should last no more than 20 to 30 minutes.
To learn more about this program and what to expect, click HERE.
| |
Public Works Construction Report | |
|
Below are details regarding new, upcoming, completed and/or delayed Capital Projects and/or maintenance project(s) that have been announced.
Laurel
-
Whiskey Bottom Road Sidewalk (Capital Project K5061-52F) – Project to build a sidewalk along eastbound Whiskey Bottom Road from Homestretch Court to US 1. Currently, there is no sidewalk in the project area and eastbound Whiskey Bottom Road has no shoulder. The project also includes installing a short retaining wall and drainage improvements. During construction hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., flagging operations will be in place to direct traffic, as temporary lane shifts will be in place throughout the project. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by early August 2023.
To learn about DPW projects currently underway, click HERE. 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 (SHA) “Project Portal” website.
| |
Department of Recreation and Parks | |
|
July is National Park and Recreation Month
Did you know that July is National Park and Recreation Month? In celebration, our Department of Recreation & Parks has a ton of great activities and programs planned to help celebrate Parks and Rec Month all month long, including movie and game nights, Zumba, food trucks, concerts and more.
While details are still being finalized, be sure to check back HERE as July draws closer for more information about upcoming events.
| |
|
County Tree Planting Programs Offered
If you are looking to add additional trees to your property, be sure to check out Recreation & Parks’ Forestry webpage to learn more about its various free tree and planting service programs – Turf to Trees (1.5 to 10 acre properties), Stream Releaf (properties near streams) and Tree Canopy (planting in neighborhoods with lower tree coverage) – available to county residents. Please note, residents are responsible for caring for the trees once planted.
Be sure to check the page out soon as spots are now open for the fall planting season!
| |
|
Time for Teens to Kick Back
Attention teens, age 11 to 17 years old! If you are looking for a fun way to spend your free time this summer, be sure to check out Recreation & Parks FREE drop-in program for teens at its three community centers and new Harriet Tubman Cultural Center. Drop-in activities include free pizza and snacks, sports, video games and more. Below, you’ll find the dates, times and locations for this summer’s teen drop-in program:
For more information, click HERE or contact Anthony Lyon at 410-313-0456 or email alyon@howardcountymd.gov.
| |
|
RTA Service Enhancements to Launch this July
In case you missed it, Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) recently announced two bus route enhancements that went into effect yesterday, July 9th. A new bus route, Route 505, will provide stops in Catonsville, Columbia and Ellicott City. Route 505 will originate in Downtown Columbia with stops at the Long Gate Shopping Center and other destinations in Ellicott City, and then travel into Baltimore County with a stop at the Catonsville Walmart off US 40 and North Rolling Road. This stop in Catonsville will create a new connection between RTA and MTA service, while also complementing MTA’s existing Express Bus 150 service and its plans to improve bus service between Catonsville and Baltimore City later this year.
This new connection is just another step in our efforts here in Howard County to promote regional transit connections with our neighbors and encourage more residents in Central Maryland to utilize transit services and complements.
The new Route 505 will replace the existing Route 405, which provided service between Ellicott City, Long Gate Shopping Center and Columbia. Instead, Route 405 will be restructured to provide more local service throughout Ellicott City, including Old Ellicott City. The restructured 405 service will provide connections to the new 505 route, serve as a circulator in Ellicott City, and add service to Pine Orchard Apartments, the Goodwill Store and Renaissance Hills Apartments (west and east of existing service respectively).
For more information about these new RTA route enhancements, please visit www.transitrta.com/routes-405_505_planning/ or call RTA’s customer service line at 1-800-270-9553.
| | | | |
