ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 13, 2008) – With the start of the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs’ inaugural season less than three months away, Governor Martin O’Malley today announced Board of Public Works approval of a $7 million matching State grant for the design and construction of the new Southern Maryland baseball stadium. The home opener is scheduled for May 2, 2008.
“Working together, the State of Maryland and the residents and community leaders of Charles County are moving forward with one of the most exciting and largest economic development projects in Southern Maryland,” said Governor O’Malley. “This new stadium will generate new jobs, become a tourist attraction for our State and region, and improve the quality of life that we all enjoy as Marylanders.”
State economic development officials have estimated that baseball and other events at the stadium will create at least 230 new jobs and generate an estimated $27 million annually in spending in Charles County. In addition to baseball, the stadium – located in Waldorf – will be a venue for concerts, community gatherings and other sporting events throughout the year.
Last summer, Governor O’Malley attended the groundbreaking of the Southern Maryland Stadium and Entertainment Complex, along with local elected officials from Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties. The $26.5 million, 4,500-seat project is being financed by a combination of funding from Charles County, the State and Maryland Baseball, the corporate owner of the team. The ownership team includes former Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame third baseman Brooks Robinson.
The ballpark architect is Tetra Tech, Inc. of Wilmington, Delaware, which also designed the minor league ballparks in Aberdeen (Ripken Stadium) and Salisbury (Perdue Stadium). The Maryland Stadium Authority was selected as the project manager, while Skanska USA Building Inc., of Rockville is the construction manager. Minority Business participation on the construction project is 26 percent.
February 13, 2008 |
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