Hampstead Officials Outline $30M Water Infrastructure Project Funding and Grant Opportunities

The Hampstead Town Hall meeting on July 31, 2025, highlighted significant funding developments for the Hampstead Water Project, which aims to enhance the town's water infrastructure. The project, estimated at $30 million, is set to benefit approximately 2,400 service users in the community.

Key discussions centered around securing financial support, including a forgivable loan of $586,000 from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and a $1 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. These funds, if utilized correctly, will not require repayment, easing the financial burden on the town.

In addition to these grants, the town has also secured a low-interest loan of $7.15 million from the MDE's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, which will be paid back over 30 years. Town officials expressed optimism about potentially reducing this loan amount through further grant applications and efficient project management.

The meeting also emphasized the collaborative efforts with local engineering firms and the support received from the Maryland Department of Environment, which has facilitated the project's progress. The town has already begun financing engineering costs to expedite the project timeline, avoiding delays that could have arisen from waiting for state approvals.

Community engagement has been a priority, with residents actively participating in discussions about easements and land purchases necessary for the project. The town has successfully negotiated favorable terms with landowners, further demonstrating a commitment to working closely with the community.

As the project moves forward, town officials are focused on maintaining transparency and keeping residents informed about developments. The next steps include finalizing funding confirmations expected in October and continuing to seek additional financial resources to ensure the project remains on track and within budget.