U.S. Congress Passes Bill Providing Millions In Funding For Three Harford County Projects

HAVRE DE GRACE - The United States Congress passed a bill last week providing funding for three major Harford County projects. The bill is awaiting Joe Biden's signature to become law.

Aberdeen Proving Ground is set to receive $7.6 million for the construction of a new "fabrication facility," and $4 million will go towards renovating Aberdeen's MARC/Amtrak station.

Ashley Addiction Treatment Center is slated to receive $420,000 to teach Harford County High School students about substance abuse.

Democrat C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger of Maryland's second congressional district requested the funding, according to a press release.

"This bill will fulfill many of our basic community needs and sends a clear message to constituents that Congress is listening," Ruppersberger said.

The Aberdeen Proving Ground fabrication facility will receive an additional $37.6 million from the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, passed on December 23.

According to a news release from Sen. Chris Van Hollen, the bill also features language supporting the demolition of contaminated facilities at APG.

"These contaminated, unused chemical testing facilities endanger readiness and cost more to maintain in the long term than they will cost to demolish," Van Hollen said.

A 4.6% pay raise for military and Department of Defense civilian employees and investments in health and child care benefits are also included in the bill.