Hagerstown secures $250K for comprehensive water wastewater master plan study

During the recent Mayor and Council Work Session in Hagerstown, significant discussions centered around a memorandum of understanding for a special appropriation grant aimed at funding a comprehensive water and wastewater master plan study. This initiative is crucial as it addresses the city's long-term infrastructure needs in light of increasing demands on water and wastewater systems.

The Maryland General Assembly has allocated $250,000 for Hagerstown as part of its fiscal 2025 budget. This funding will support the development of a master plan that spans a 20-year planning window. The plan will involve creating updated hydraulic models for both water and wastewater systems, which are essential for effective management and future planning.

City officials emphasized the importance of updating existing Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping, particularly for water infrastructure, which requires significant improvements. The master plan will prioritize projects to ensure that both current and future demands are adequately met within the city's defined service area.

This initiative is not only a response to immediate infrastructure needs but also aligns with broader city planning efforts, including the water resource element and the comprehensive plan. The integration of these documents will help ensure a cohesive approach to managing Hagerstown's water resources.

As the city moves forward with this plan, the approval of the memorandum of understanding will be a critical step in securing the necessary funding and resources to enhance Hagerstown's water and wastewater systems. The discussions at the meeting highlight the city's proactive approach to infrastructure management and its commitment to meeting the needs of its residents now and in the future.