Kent County Gets $14M Federal Infrastructure Funding

U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks delivered $14 million in federal funding to Kent County on Friday, Feb. 28, supporting infrastructure across the region.

The senators visited the Robert B. Rust Jr. Kent County Emergency Medical Services headquarters in Chestertown to present a $45,000 check for a backup emergency power generator. The funding prevents power disruptions from interrupting emergency services.

The $14 million allocation includes $6 million for the Millington Wastewater Treatment Plant and $8 million for freight rail system upgrades shared with Queen Anne's County. Van Hollen said the senators coordinate requests from across the state and listen carefully to local priorities.

The funds come from Fiscal Year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending, part of $58.2 million for 39 community projects statewide.

Van Hollen noted he has worked with Kent County firefighters for years, securing $560,000 to fill service gaps. Alsobrooks, elected to the Senate in 2024, said the collaboration between federal and local officials reflects their commitment to Maryland communities.

Kent County Commission President Ron Fithian credited County Administrator Shelley Heller, Public Works Director Dan Mattson, and Grants Program Administrator Joanne McNamara for securing the funding. McNamara said the team began discussions with the senators' staff over a year ago.

The senators also announced $1.04 million for a new community center and town hall in Barclay and toured the Benedictine School for Exceptional Children. Van Hollen secured $1.8 million in Fiscal Year 2024 funding to renovate the school's living areas and health facilities.