ANNAPOLIS, MD — Today, Governor Wes Moore and cabinet members continued the governor’s statewide cabinet meeting road tour in Cecil County. The administration’s cabinet convened at Great Wolf Lodge and visited economic development investments across the county. The governor joined cabinet members for visits to the Bainbridge Development Corporation and downtown Rising Sun to discuss opportunities for redevelopment and economic growth in Cecil County.
“Today was a reminder of what’s possible when we invest in communities that hold the keys to Maryland's economic potential,”
said Gov. Moore. “It was great to be with our cabinet in Cecil County, as we met with local elected officials and community leaders to discuss the path ahead. Together, we will continue to deliver for middle class Marylanders, grow our economy, and invest in our people.”
“Cecil County was honored to welcome Governor Moore and his team today,”
said Cecil County Executive Adam Streight. “His visit underscores a commitment to working closely with local governments to understand the needs of our communities firsthand. We appreciate his willingness to listen, engage, and collaborate as we work toward a stronger future for Cecil County and all of Maryland.”
Following the cabinet meeting, Governor Moore traveled to Port Deposit with cabinet members to visit the Bainbridge Development Corporation. The governor was briefed on Bainbridge's redevelopment progress, including Norway-based company AquaCon’s plan to purchase 160 acres for a recirculating aquaculture facility. The new facility will allow the company to operate land-based farming of Atlantic salmon, which the company believes to be the future of environmentally sustainable seafood production. According to AquaCon, the first phase of the facility would produce 10,000 tons of Atlantic salmon each year. When fully operational, the company anticipates having approximately 300 employees and aims to have its first salmon harvest in early 2029.
Afterwards, the governor traveled to Rising Sun, where he joined Mayor Travis Marion and cabinet members on a visit to two small businesses on Main Street. Garden Girl and Rise N’ Grind—owned by a mother-daughter duo in Rising Sun—are instrumental in revitalizing the downtown area. Garden Girl, a local sandwich shop, was awarded a $150,000 Project Restore 2.0 grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development in FY 2024—helping them officially open their doors in January 2025. The governor and Mayor Marion also discussed how the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s $50,000 grant through the Façade Improvement Program will help business owners finance exterior repairs.
“Today’s visit from Governor Moore is a powerful reminder that small towns matter,”
said Rising Sun Mayor Travis Marion. “His commitment to investing in our community and supporting local businesses speaks volumes about the state’s dedication to ensuring that all communities, no matter their size, have the opportunity to thrive. This partnership will help us build a stronger, more vibrant future for our residents, and we are grateful for the governor’s leadership and continued support in making sure small towns are never overlooked.”
Throughout the day, cabinet members toured sites around Cecil County, including Great Wolf Lodge, North Bay Adventure Camp, and SunMed Growers. At each stop, cabinet members discussed ways the administration can work in partnership with the county to facilitate the growth and revitalization of Cecil County’s commercial districts and economic development initiatives.
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