BALTIMORE, MD—A total of $21.5 million will be allocated to improve public boating access, dredging of navigable waterways, and safety for the next fiscal year, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.  In Baltimore County, Gunpowder Falls State Park is set to receive nearly $2.5 million.

The funding comes from a variety of sources including a 5% excise tax on boats when they are purchased and titled in Maryland, as well as a small portion of the state’s gas tax.

The money is being distributed through the Waterway Improvement Fund, which has awarded more than $80 million for 400 public boating facilities, 250 public navigational channels and the acquisition of vessels to date.

“Our waterways are a major component of Maryland’s economic success and cultural identity, and keeping them accessible, safe, and navigable are key priorities,” said Maryland Secretary of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “The Waterway Improvement Fund, funded by Maryland’s boating public and distributed in close partnership with our waterfront communities, has been a critical component in supporting these activities for decades.”

Applications for the next fiscal year are currently being accepted through the Grants Gateway.

The projects funded in the 2025 fiscal year include: $250,000 for Annapolis to upgrade power pedestal; $175,000 and $457,000 for improvements to public boating access at Fourth Street and Shipwright Street; $277,500 for Parker Creek dredging; $22,500 for a new shallow water safety vessel for the Baltimore City Fire Department; $2.25 million for dredging and placing dredged material at Gunpowder Falls State Park’s Dundee Creek Marina; $200,000 for the replacement of the Hammerman Boat Ramp at Gunpowder Falls State Park; $50,000 for North Beach to upgrade its pier and boating area.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

Photo via Maryland Natural Resources Police