GRANTSVILLE - In appreciation of Maryland's historic bridges, Gov. Martin O'Malley has committed $858,000 in Transportation Enhancement Program funds to restore the 1932 U.S. 40 Alternate Bridge over Casselman River at Grantsville.

The project includes replacement of the concrete deck slab and structural and substructure steel repairs. The bridge has been cited as a good example of a 1930s-era Pratt Truss bridge.

The Maryland State Highway Administration will pay the remainder of the total cost, which is $1,716,000.

Restoration of the bridge will prolong the service life of this historically eligible structure, the second in a trilogy of historic bridges. The other two bridges are the stone arch bridge located in Casselman River State Park and the dual steel bridges that carry Interstate 68 over the river. These three bridges represent three different eras of bridge construction. In addition to its historic significance, the U.S. 40 bridge is a vital transportation link for tourism.

"Maryland history consists of more than what happened hundreds of years ago," said O'Malley. "Rehabilitating this bridge is an opportunity to pay our respects to the recent past - and to one of our unique historical treasures."

Garrett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Ernest Gregg said, "In Garrett County, it's hard to say whether history or tourism is more important. This project is good news for both."

The state contribution to this and similar projects is made possible through the Transportation Enhancement Program, which funds nontraditional, community-based, transportation-related projects. The governor determines which projects qualify for funding based on need and potential benefit to the public.

Grants approved so far in 2007 total $11.3 million. The Maryland Department of Transportation's State Highway Administration oversees the federal program, which has awarded more than $173 million for 244 projects in Maryland since TEP began in 1991.