In a significant move to bolster agricultural development in Southern Maryland, the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland recently awarded a $275,000 check to the St. Mary’s County Board of Commissioners. This funding is allocated for the Capacity Enhancement Project at The Barns at New Market, marking a pivotal step forward in regional economic and agricultural advancement.
The grant is part of a larger $550,000 funding initiative under the Rural Maryland Economic Development Fund, aimed at supporting a suite of seven projects within St. Mary’s County. This financial backing comes in the wake of concerted efforts by local entities, including the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC), underscoring the collective commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth in the area.
The Barns at New Market, a cornerstone of local agriculture and commerce, is set to undergo significant upgrades thanks to this investment. Plans include the installation of a Best Available Technology (BAT) system tailored for high-fat food processing, alongside an expansion of the current parking facilities. These enhancements will cater to the complex’s 5,100 sq. ft. seasonal market building and its 14 indoor vendor stalls, which serve as a vital outlet for farmers and agricultural producers from St. Mary’s, Charles, and Calvert counties.
John Hartline, Executive Director of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, expressed enthusiasm over the project, highlighting the broader initiative’s roots in Governor Hogan’s $50 Million Rural Maryland Economic Development Fund. “We are delighted to fund this project which is made possible in part through Governor Hogan’s $50 Million Rural Maryland Economic Development Fund,” Hartline stated. He further elaborated on the strategic allocation of funds, with each Tri-County Council receiving up to $10 million to invigorate economic development across Maryland’s rural regions.
The first tranche of funding, amounting to $275,000, was disbursed to St. Mary’s County in July 2023, setting the stage for the project’s commencement. With the completion of the Barns at New Market Capacity Enhancement Project anticipated by mid-April 2024, the local community is eagerly awaiting the re-opening of the market for the spring/summer season. This timeline underscores a swift and effective use of the funds, aimed at minimizing disruption to the seasonal market cycle and ensuring that the benefits of the enhancement project are realized promptly.
The investment in The Barns at New Market is more than a financial transaction; it represents a forward-thinking approach to rural economic development, with a focus on sustainability, technological advancement, and community engagement. As the project unfolds, it promises to enhance the agricultural landscape of Southern Maryland, providing a robust platform for local producers and a vibrant marketplace for consumers.
