Van Hollen, Alsobrooks, McClain Delaney Announce $2.5 Million for Development of Oakland-Herrington Manor Trail

Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks and Congresswoman April McClain Delaney (all D-Md.) announced $2,500,000 in federal funding to support Garrett County's development of the Oakland-Herrington Manor Trail. This new trail connecting the Town of Oakland to Herrington Manor State Park is part of the County's "Eastern Continental Divide Loop", a 150-mile trail network that will connect Maryland's largest wild forests with state parks, population centers, and the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP), enhancing recreational opportunities and supporting tourism in Mountain Maryland.

"Outdoor recreation is one of Western Maryland's greatest economic engines. Years ago, Team Maryland fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to boost investment in outdoor recreation infrastructure - and this funding from that landmark law will help Garrett County expand access to the region's natural beauty, strengthen tourism, and create new opportunities for residents and visitors alike," said Senator Van Hollen.

"I want Marylanders to be able to enjoy everything our great state has to offer. That is why I have partnered with Senator Van Hollen and Congresswoman McClain Delaney to secure over $2 million in federal investment for the Oakland-Herrington Manor Trail in Mountain Maryland. This expansive trail network brings together state parks, forests, and different communities in Garrett County. This investment will fuel Maryland's tourism economy, safeguard our natural habitats, and create more opportunities for outdoor recreation. And it won't just benefit Marylanders, it will benefit all who come to visit and enjoy the beauty of Mountain Maryland," said Senator Alsobrooks.

"Mountain Maryland is home to some of our nation's most remarkable outdoor treasures, drawing visitors from across the country to experience its natural beauty and renewal. This important investment in the Oakland-Herrington Manor Trail will attract even more people to our great state and drive critical revenue for many area small businesses. I'm grateful to the many partners in Garrett County who recognized the importance of this federal funding opportunity, and I especially thank Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks for their leadership in securing these resources for Western Maryland," said Congresswoman McClain Delaney.

The investment is provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program, which Federal Team Maryland created in 2021 through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.