Harford County has earned a national award for creative, data-driven governance that has produced measurable improvements to the quality of life in the historically distressed southern section of the County.

The Award of Excellence in the Planning/Policy/Program Management category from the National Association for County Community and Economic Development was announced at the organization’s annual conference, September 8 – 11, 2025.

From the county release:

“For many years, our Route 40 corridor has heard lots of talk and seen very little action,” County Executive Bob Cassilly said. “From its beginning, the Southern County Taskforce has been action-oriented and dedicated to addressing the unique challenges and tremendous opportunities in southern Harford County by effectively leveraging federal and state resources in collaboration with community members, local businesses, and government. My administration is honored by this national award, which we share with our partners in and outside of county government. Together we are making all of Harford County the best we can be.”

Nearly $2 million in grants has been deployed in the area since late 2022 through federal, state, and local Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), the HOME Investment Partnership Program, and other funding.

Some of the improvements include streetlight and security camera installation; restoration of aging parks and recreation facilities; home renovations; new homeowner downpayment funds; restoration of county-owned Citizens Care nursing facility to provide 20 additional beds; senior citizen housing project, and more