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.
In 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.
Several significant projects were awarded funding in 2024, including:
- Garrett Container Systems Upgrade ($1.3M) – Supporting facility improvements to enhance manufacturing operations.
- North Hill Community ($900K) – Infrastructure development for a new 55-plus senior housing community in Grantsville.
- Mountain Laurel Medical Center Expansion ($1M) – Increasing healthcare accessibility in Northern Garrett County.
- Green Turtle Business Expansion ($275K) –Convert the outdoor patio into year-round enclosed dining and bar.
- Cherry Hill Assisted Living Facility ($1M, Pending Disbursement) – A new 24-bed residential care center.
- Sunrise Sanitation Facility ($800K, Pending Disbursement) – A regional recyclable materials processing center.
- Town of Accident Residential Infrastructure ($435K, Pending Disbursement) – Enhancing utilities for future housing development.
- Quest for Hope Counseling Center ($167K, Pending Disbursement) – Establishing a mental health support facility.
These initiatives align with Garrett County’s priorities, ensuring economic vitality, job creation, and community well-being.
The Fund also saw the completion of major projects that have strengthened Garrett County’s economic landscape:
- Beitzel Resources ($1.5M) – Enhanced operational capacity, creating 25 jobs.
- Simon Pearce ($1.3M) – Expanded production facilities, adding 34 jobs.
- Corsa Coal/North Mine ($1.3M) – Supported regional mining operations, adding 60 jobs.
Ongoing projects from previous funding rounds continue to support long-term growth, including:
- Affordable Housing Development ($1.2M, 2023) – Infrastructure investment in Grantsville.
- Keyser’s Ridge Business Park Utilities ($500K, 2023) – Expanding propane system capacity.
- MEDCO Spec Building Purchase ($600K, 2023) – A new business-ready facility, expected to create 120 jobs.
The 2024 Economic Impact Analysis underscores the Fund’s effectiveness, with key metrics demonstrating its role in driving private investment, job creation, and infrastructure improvements:
-Total Project Value: $56.6 million
-Total Funding Awarded: $12.47 million
-New Jobs Created: 361
“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.”
As 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.
For more information or to access the full 2024 Western Maryland Economic Future Investment Board Annual Report, please visit www.GarrettCountyMD.gov/george-fund or contact Steve Kelley at skelley@garrettcountymd.gov or 301-334-1991.
