Worcester County

Worcester County was founded in 1742 and is the easternmost county of the state of Maryland. The county seat is Snow Hill

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Public Invited to Wawa Sign Unveiling Ceremony June 4 in Pocomoke City

Residents, business leaders, and community stakeholders are invited to attend a sign unveiling ceremony for the future home of Wawa in Pocomoke City on Thursday, June 4, at 12:30 p.m.

The event will take place at the corner of U.S. Route 13 and Stockton Road and will celebrate a significant private-sector investment that reflects continued confidence in Pocomoke City's growth and economic potential.

The ceremony is being hosted by Maryland’s Coast–Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development (WCTED), Pocomoke City, and Paramount Realty.

"WCTED is committed to fostering economic growth, supporting business investment, and creating opportunities that strengthen communities throughout Worcester County," WCTED Director Melanie Pursel said. "The addition of Wawa represents new jobs, expanded services for residents and travelers, and continued commercial development in Pocomoke City. Projects like this help advance our mission of encouraging sustainable economic development and enhancing the quality of life for those who live, work, and visit Maryland's Coast."

The new Wawa location is expected to serve as a catalyst for additional investment along the U.S. Route 13 corridor while providing convenience, employment opportunities, and increased economic activity in the southern portion of Worcester County.

The public is encouraged to attend and join community leaders in marking this milestone for Pocomoke City's future. To RSVP, visit https://t.co/WSt2fNmwNZ.... See less

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Public Notice –West Ocean City Water Outage June 3 on E. Hopetown Lane, a section of W. Hopetown Lane, a section of Swordfish Drive, a section of Harbor Road, and all of Carmel Avenue, Oceanview Lane, and Abaco Lane

To replace a failing water service main, Public Works will shut off water to an estimated 80 homes for all of E. Hopetown Lane, a section of W. Hopetown Lane, all of Abaco Lane, a section of Swordfish Drive, a section of Harbor Road, all of Carmel Avenue, and all of Oceanview Lane in WOC from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 3, with an alternative date of Thursday, June 4. Water service will be affected for approximately 6-9 hours, while crews make the repair.

Following the repair, area residents may experience brown water. If that occurs, please allow the water to run for a few minutes until it becomes clear. If the water remains brown, please contact Water and Wastewater at 410-641-5251.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Last Tuesday, the Worcester County Commissioners were proud to recognize the dedicated employees of Public Works during National Public Works Week, May 17–23, 2026.

In keeping with this year’s theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” the Commissioners honored the engineers, managers, operators, technicians, and staff members who work every day to maintain and improve the infrastructure and essential services that keep Worcester County running. From roads and bridges to water and wastewater systems, buildings, and solid waste services, Public Works professionals play a vital role in protecting public health and safety, supporting economic vitality, and enhancing quality of life throughout our community.

Thank you to all Worcester County Public Works employees for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving our residents each and every day.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Traffic Alert: Partial Collins Road Closure Wed., May 27

A portion of Collins Road in Bishopville will be closed Wednesday, May 27, while crews replace a failed crossroad pipe. Detour signs will be posted to help guide motorists around the closure.

Residents and motorists are welcome to contact the Road's Division with any questions or concerns at 410-632-2244.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Today, the commissioners celebrated Derek Jarmon, Sr. for an incredible 39 years of service with Worcester County Public Works Water and Wastewater Division.

Throughout his career, Mr. Jarmon played a vital role as a plant operator III in the operation and maintenance of the County’s water and wastewater systems, serving 37 years on the Collections Team and leading operations for the north side of Ocean Pines. Known for his professionalism, leadership, and commitment to customer service, Mr. Jarmon also mentored fellow employees and helped ensure the safe and reliable delivery of essential public services to our community.

Thank you, Mr. Jarmon, for nearly four decades of devoted service to Worcester County. We wish you a long, happy, and healthy retirement!

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Worcester County Secures State Grant for Newark Water System Modernization Project

Snow Hill, MD — Worcester County Government has secured a $613,380 grant from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to fund a lead service line replacement and cross-connection control project in the Newark Service Area.

“This project will modernize aging water infrastructure by replacing outdated and potentially lead-containing service lines along Newark Road and Langmaid Road and installing new meter pit setters equipped with dual check valves to prevent backflow,” Public Works Director Dallas Baker said.

The improvements are intended to address public health concerns associated with older piping materials and plumbing systems dating back to the 1970s, when the water system was originally installed. The project also includes connecting homes to an existing eight-inch PVC water main and abandoning deteriorated four-inch metal piping.

Once completed, the upgrades are expected to improve water quality, system reliability, and water pressure while ensuring compliance with current cross-connection control regulations designed to protect the public water supply from contamination.

The start of design work remains contingent upon final concurrence from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on the grant award.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Thinking about building a deck this summer? DRP has got you covered.

As DIY projects ramp up, Worcester County’s Development Review & Permitting building team has created a helpful, step-by-step guide to make planning your deck project easier than ever. Whether you’re a homeowner or contractor, this worksheet breaks down the construction plan requirements for simple decks in a clear, easy-to-follow format.

In fact, a recent customer used the guide to apply for a permit and shared that it made the process simple and straightforward—exactly what it’s designed to do. Before you start building, take a few minutes to review the guide and set your project up for success:

https://t.co/XoUvlSsCoG

Have questions? Our team is here to help every step of the way. Let’s build smart, safe, and ready for summer!

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Public Notice –West Ocean City Water Outage May 15 on E. Hopetown Lane, a section of W. Hopetown Lane, a section of Swordfish Drive, a section of Harbor Road, and all of Carmel Avenue, Oceanview Lane, and Abaco Lane

To replace a failing water service main, Public Works will shut off water to an estimated 80 homes for all of E. Hopetown Lane, a section of W. Hopetown Lane, all of Abaco Lane, a section of Swordfish Drive, a section of Harbor Road, all of Carmel Avenue, and all of Oceanview Lane in WOC from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 15, with an alternative date of Monday, May 18. Water service will be affected for approximately 6-9 hours while crews make the repair.

Following the repair, area residents may experience brown water. If that occurs, please allow the water to run for a few minutes until it becomes clear. If the water remains brown, please contact Water and Wastewater at 410-641-5251.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Gear Up for May 16 Fishing Derby at Newtown Park Pond

Gear up for the Worcester County Recreation & Parks (WCRP) annual Fishing Derby May 16, 2026 from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at Newtown Park Pond, located at 2001 Groton Road in Pocomoke. Registration starts that morning at 8:00 a.m. Awards and lunch will take place at the Newtown Park pavilion at 11:30 a.m.

This derby is open to ages 15 and under. Both the event and lunch are free to all participants. Attendees will need to bring their own fishing rod and bait, and parents or guardians should be present to assist their child.

Preregistration is available online at https://t.co/LFcpRGPrRX.

For more information, contact Joe Tolbert at 410-632-2144, ext. 2505 or [email protected] . For a full list of special events visit https://t.co/UF6jvrdvcv.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Wednesday, May 13, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., take a mid-day break to focus on your health at the Community Health and Wellness Fair at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill. There will be free health screenings, wellness resources and experiences, fitness demonstrations, giveaways, and vendors sharing information to help attendees live healthier lives.

The new CareFirst CARE Van (equipped with over 30
screenings) will make one of its first public appearances. Other activities will include a Healthy Body, Healthy Brain cooking demo by Health Department professionals at 10 a.m., chair yoga at 11 a.m., a Bank of Delmarva Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Early Bird Fitness.
Attendees can also walk the indoor track.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

WORCESTER COUNTY ISSUES BURN BAN
Snow Hill, Maryland - Effective immediately, Worcester County Fire Marshal Matthew Owens has issued a burn ban, and ALL outdoor burning is banned for an indefinite period of time in Worcester County.
"Due to the County's current dry conditions, low precipitation totals, and declining water table levels, the burn ban is effective immediately," Fire Marshal Owens said. "This ban should reduce the number of out-of-control outside fires, which cause safety concerns for area residents, visitors, and especially responding fire personnel."
The ban applies to all outdoor ignition sources, with the following exceptions:
Proper use of gas and charcoal grills
Campfires at the County's commercial campgrounds
Campfires at State and Federal campgrounds
Permitted official Town of Ocean City bonfires
Private property recreational campfires that are limited to a fire area of two feet with a height of three feet
Public fireworks displays
Volunteer fire company training exercises
The burn ban will remain in effect until the dry conditions improve and County officials determine that outdoor burning may safely resume.
"All existing outdoor burn permits have been rescinded," Environmental Programs Director Bob Mitchell said. "Conditions remain dry, rainfall has been below normal, and County monitoring indicates that water table levels remain low. These conditions increase the potential for rapid fire spread and support the need for this temporary ban."
Residents and visitors are urged to use caution with all outdoor ignition sources and to closely monitor future announcements regarding any changes to the burn ban.
For further information, contact the Worcester County Fire Marshal's Office at 410-632-5666.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Traffic Alert: WOC roadway milling and paving projects in early May in and around Lake Place, Riggin Ridge Road, Meadow Drive, Snug Harbor Road and the harbor area.

County Roads Division contractor Allan Myers will begin milling these county roads on or about Monday, May 4.

Repaving operations are expected to begin the following Monday, May 11.

Please note that all milling and paving schedules remain subject to weather conditions. Flaggers will be stationed throughout active work zones to safely guide motorists through affected areas.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

🚧 May 7-8 Public Works Parking Lot to be Closed for Repaving 🚧

The parking lot serving the Public Works Administration building at 6113 Timmons Road in Snow Hill will be repaved Thursday-Friday, May 7-8, weather permitting. During this time, the office will be closed to the public for safety reasons.

Staff will remain available by phone and email, and appointments can be arranged at an alternate location by calling 410-632-5623.

Normal operations will resume Monday, May 11, at 7:30 a.m.

Thank you for your patience as these improvements are completed.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Not sure if your voting district or polling place has changed? Worcester County Government encourages residents to download the new Go Vote Maryland! app from the Maryland State Board of Elections.

This free app makes it easy to check your voter registration, confirm your polling place, and access trusted election information—all from your phone.

[Maryland Elections @md_sbe]

Happy Maryland Day! This Maryland Day we are celebrating by launching our new app! Download today! #MDVotes #TrustedInfo2026

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

On Tuesday, the commissioners were honored to host representatives from the Worcester County Child Advocacy Center, Life Crisis, and the Department of Social Services to recognize Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month. April serves as a reminder that children are our most valuable and vulnerable community members, and that abuse and neglect can have lasting impacts on them. But, prevention is possible through education, early intervention, and strong community partnerships. Learn how you can get involved and help protect children: https://t.co/bBeMM1Pj5o.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

We were pleased to welcome Stephen Decatur High School senior Trey Rill to Tuesday’s Commissioners’ Meeting in recognition of his service as Worcester County’s Page to the 2026 Maryland General Assembly. A dedicated student and emerging leader, Trey exemplifies academic excellence, community involvement, and a strong interest in public service. We commend him on his achievements and look forward to all he will accomplish in the future.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Worcester County officials are urging residents and visitors to use extra caution with outdoor burning as dry conditions continue across the region, increasing the risk of fast-moving fires.

Recent low rainfall has led to dry soil and vegetation, and local fire departments have already responded to several outdoor fires that spread quickly under these conditions. While most have been contained, the risk remains elevated.

🔥 “Even routine outdoor burning can quickly get out of control under current conditions,” said Fire Marshal Matthew Owens.

👉 Please help protect your community by following these safety tips:
• Avoid open burning whenever possible
• Never leave a fire unattended
• Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby
• Fully extinguish smoking materials
• Follow all local burn regulations and permit requirements

⚠️ If conditions do not improve, a burn ban may be considered to protect life, property, and natural resources.

Your cooperation helps keep our community—and our first responders—safe.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Public Works – Roads Division began its annual roadside mowing operations today, Monday, April 20, 2026.

This work plays an important role in maintaining clear sightlines for drivers and improving safety along County roadways. As crews are out in the field, motorists are asked to stay alert and use caution around slow-moving mowing equipment.

Residents are also reminded to remove any signs placed within the County right-of-way, including political or “snipe” signs. Any remaining signage in these areas will be removed and discarded by County staff.

Questions? Contact the Roads Division at 410-632-2244.

Thank you for helping us keep Worcester County’s roads safe!

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Worcester County officials gathered this morning for a ribbon cutting to mark the reopening of the Isle of Wight Offices! ✂️

Following interior renovations, the updated space provides a more efficient, comfortable, and accessible environment for residents utilizing Treasurer’s Office and Health Department services. These improvements enhance the County’s ability to serve the public.

Beginning today, both offices have resumed regular satellite services at this location, Monday through Friday:
• Treasurer’s Office: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Health Department: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

As part of this transition, the temporary payment drop box at the Ocean Pines Library has been discontinued. Payments can now be made in person or via the drop box at the Isle of Wight Offices.

[Worcester County @WorcesterCounty]

Public invited to May 5 hearing on proposed FY27 Worcester County Operating Budget

The commissioners invite the public to attend a hearing on the requested FY27 County Operating Budget. The hearing will take place at the Worcester County Government Center in Snow Hill on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 6 p.m. The meeting will also be streamed live at https://t.co/sysuls27oq.

Those who wish to speak or attend in person are encouraged to call County Administration at 410-632-1194 to pre-register. Speakers will be allowed to address the County Commissioners for up to two minutes. Written comments may also be submitted to [email protected] or before 4:00 p.m. May 4.