CUMBERLAND – February 12, 2026

Senator Mike McKay secured millions in state funding for Garrett County projects—from water infrastructure and school improvements to fire department upgrades and community facilities.

“Garrett County families send plenty of tax dollars to Annapolis. My job is to fight like hell to bring some of that money back home,” said Senator McKay. “These aren’t handouts—this is Western Maryland’s money, invested right here where it belongs.”

Water and Wastewater Infrastructure

McKay fought to deliver critical investments in Garrett County’s water systems, including:

• $7.9 million for the Grantsville Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade
• $5.6 million for Swallow Falls wastewater improvements
• $919,000 for Gorman wastewater system improvements
• $589,000 for Grantsville water system improvements
• $450,000 for the Gorman water source project

“Clean water isn’t optional—it’s the basics,” McKay said. “Families in Garrett County deserve infrastructure that works, and I’ll keep pushing until we get it done.”

Schools and Education

McKay secured funding for school construction and improvements:

• $4.85 million for Southern Middle School addition and renovation
• $327,000 for Garrett College facilities renewal
• $307,000 for Garrett College athletic facilities expansion
• $200,000 for Friendsville Elementary School playground equipment
• $100,000 for Crellin Elementary School addition and renovation

Parks and Recreation

Garrett County’s outdoor spaces and recreation facilities will see major improvements:

• $2 million for Sang Run State Park General Store renovation
• $1.3 million for Mt. Nebo office, garage, and storage
• $1.15 million for Deep Creek Lake Management Protection Fund
• $163,000 for Broadford Lake baseball field restoration
• $100,000 for Oakland youth baseball and softball fields restoration
• $95,000 for ADA-accessible fishing improvements at Deep Creek Lake

Fire Departments and Community Organizations

McKay championed funding for the volunteer organizations that keep Garrett County safe:

• $125,000 for American Legion Proctor Kildow Post 71 roof replacement
• $100,000 for Accident Volunteer Fire Department
• $100,000 for Oakland VFD building improvements
• $75,000 for Community Action façade improvements

Direct Aid to Local Government

Garrett County will receive $43.3 million in direct state aid, including $2.1 million through the disparity grant program—an increase of $83,863 over last year. The county will also receive $3 million in highway user revenues and $1.8 million under the Revenue Equity Program, which returns tax value to counties with state forests, parks, and wildlife management areas.

“Annapolis doesn’t always remember Western Maryland exists. I make sure they don’t forget,” McKay said. “Every dollar I can bring back to Garrett County is a dollar that stays in our communities—fixing roads, funding our schools, and supporting the volunteers who protect our neighbors.”

Stay up to date on Senator McKay’s fight for Western Maryland—sign up for his District Newsletter at MikeMcKayMD.com/#newsletter.