edited by Nikola Tzenov
Chris Van Hollen and Johnny Olszewski this week highlighted more than $5.1 million in federal funding secured for community, infrastructure and education projects across Carroll County, including nearly $3.8 million for initiatives in Westminster.
The funding, part of fiscal year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending, was secured alongside Angela Alsobrooks. Lawmakers said the investments target water infrastructure, workforce development and expanded access to health and mental health services.
“From strengthening Westminster’s water supply to growing our skilled workforce pipeline to expanding access to mental health care, we delivered these federal investments to ensure our partners in Carroll County have the resources they need,” Van Hollen said in a statement.
Olszewski said the projects reflect “targeted, responsible funding” that will improve public health, safety and economic readiness across the county.
Alsobrooks highlighted more than $1 million for a water reuse facility in Westminster, $830,000 for nursing education, $1 million for mental health services and $850,000 for workforce training in the trades.
The lawmakers began their visit in Westminster, where $1,092,000 will support development of what officials described as Maryland’s first indirect water reuse facility, aimed at creating a drought-resistant water source.
Westminster Mayor Mona Becker said the project, known as PUREWater Westminster, will help ensure long-term water security for city residents.
At McDaniel College, officials highlighted $830,000 in funding to equip a new nursing education facility in partnership with Carroll Hospital. The facility is designed to allow students to train in a setting that mirrors real-world clinical environments.
McDaniel College President Julia Jasken said the investment will help address workforce shortages while preparing future nurses.
The delegation also visited the Carroll County Youth Service Bureau, which will receive $1 million to expand its facility and services. The funding will support construction of additional space to increase access to mental health and substance use treatment.
Elizabeth Guroff, executive director of the bureau, said the investment will allow the organization to expand outreach and strengthen its clinical capacity.
The tour concluded at Carroll Community College, where $850,000 will fund the creation of a new Applied Technology and Trades Center. The center will train students in fields including manufacturing, welding, plumbing, carpentry and vehicle maintenance.
Carroll Community College President Rosalie Mince said the funding underscores federal support for workforce development through community colleges.
In total, six projects across Carroll County received funding:
- $1,092,000 for Westminster’s water purification system
- $1,000,000 for the Carroll County Youth Service Bureau expansion
- $850,000 for Carroll Community College’s trades center
- $850,000 for restoration of the Flat Iron Building in Mount Airy
- $830,000 for nursing education at McDaniel College
- $500,000 for water and sewer improvements in New Windsor
Lawmakers said the investments are intended to strengthen infrastructure, expand access to care and prepare the region’s workforce for in-demand fields.
