State heritage is important to preserve—for many generations to come to enjoy.
The Chesapeake region got one step closer to that goal with the passage of a Senate bill during the 2025 legislative session that would double funding from $6 million to $12 million for the Maryland Heritage Areas Coalition.
The bill (SB0980), sponsored by Sens. Paul Corderman and Michael A. Jackson, also raises caps on grants the coalition can receive. One of the areas the coalition supports is the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, which encompasses parts of Prince George’s County, along with Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties.
“Maryland is only one of two states in the nation with a state-based heritage area program, which speaks volumes about how deeply we value our history and its powerful role in the American story,” says Lucille Walker, executive director of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, in a news release. “We also recognize the economic strength of our heritage and the vital role heritage tourism plays across the state. This legislation, along with the Maryland Heritage Areas Program, is essential to making sure everyone sees themselves in Maryland’s story for generations to come.”
The state of Maryland has 13 distinct heritage areas, with the Southern Maryland Heritage Area being a relatively new addition. The tourism industry based around these areas supports more than 40,000 jobs and brings billions of dollars into the state economy annually. The coalition will now be able to devote more money towards projects supporting local tourism.
