ESSEX, MD— Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski and Delegate Ric Metzgar on Thursday announced $1.4 million in FY2023 state funding for streetscaping and roadway improvements in Essex.

These projects are part of the multi-departmental Essex recovery initiative that the County Executive announced in June 2021.

“An attractive and inviting streetscape can draw in visitors, attract new businesses and instill a sense of civic pride for those who live in and love Essex. I look forward to seeing Essex continue to blossom,” said County Executive Olszewski. “Thank you to Delegate Metzger for his advocacy for the state resources supporting much of this work and for partnering with us to address issues that are important to our Essex residents and business owners.”

Olszewski, along with various department heads and neighborhood leaders, last year took a community walk through Essex, held a virtual community meeting and spoke to residents about a wide variety of concerns, including public safety, code enforcement, access to recreational spaces, as well as other social and economic disparities. A consistent topic of discussion was the disrepair and lack of curb appeal along Eastern Boulevard, the main thoroughfare in downtown Essex.

A portion of the new funding—$400,000—will support the streetscaping along Eastern Boulevard between Mace and Margaret avenues, which is estimated to be completed within the year. The project will include:

• Replacement of wooden benches
• Removing asphalt and planting new trees in tree boxes
• Fixing uneven brick and sidewalk issues
• Repairing the damaged brick wall by the bus stop

“This project will go a long way toward improving the heart of Essex. I am delighted to work together with the County Executive in the spirit of bipartisanship.”

The remainder of the funding—$1 million—will support planning and design for a multi-year bridge and sidewalk project at Marlyn Avenue and MD-702. The project, which is estimated to cost $4 million, will add sidewalks and replace a foot bridge in an area popular with pedestrians.