Annapolis, MD (October 29, 1998) -- The public beach in the Calvert County town of North Beach could get more than a face-lift thanks to proposed assistance from the State, Governor Parris N. Glendening announced today. The Governor said he will seek legislative approval for $200,000 in the State's fiscal year 2000 budget to replenish areas of the beach damaged by hurricane Fran and this year's nor'easter storms.

"Mayor Daniel Hartley and the residents of North Beach work hard to keep their public beach a pleasant area for families to enjoy," Governor Glendening said. "Not only is the beach a natural and recreational resource, it is important to the town's economy and quality of life as well as Maryland's."

"North Beach plays a pivotal role in the environmental preservation and economic development of the area," said Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller. "I am very pleased with the Governor's commitment to its revitalization. The residents of North Beach can count on my support for this funding during the next legislative session."

Additionally, to assist the town with longer term replenishment of the 600-foot beach, the Governor has directed the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to conduct an engineering evaluation and develop a plan for comprehensive restabilization of the beach. DNR will begin work next week and the evaluation is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

"I am very excited at this support from Governor Glendening, Senator Mike Miller, and Delegate George Owings," said North Beach Mayor Daniel Hartley. " The revitalization of our beach means nothing less than the salvation of the town of North Beach."

"Over the past term Governor Glendening has demonstrated time and again his commitment to the rural areas of the State," said Delegate Owings. "Most recently it was his involvement with the saving of Franklin Point, and now it is much needed help for my hometown, North Beach. I hope these actions don't go unnoticed."