Traffic Alert: A portion of Sinepuxent Road to be closed October 21 Wednesday, October 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., a portion of Sinepuxent Road will be closed while crews replace a failed crossroad pipe. A detour will be in place to guide motorists around the work area. Work is expected to be completed in one day. Residents and motorists are welcome to contact the Road's Division with any questions or concerns at 410-632-2244.

The Board of License Commissioners will meet Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 1 p.m.

The County Commissioners will meet this Tuesday, October 20, 2026, with the regular session to begin at 10 a.m. View the agenda below or online, and watch the meeting in person or live at worcestercountymd.swagit.com….

REMINDER: Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day is October 31 Worcester County residents can safely dispose of household chemicals, batteries, oil-based paint, laptops, and computer towers on Saturday, October 31, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Central Landfill in Newark. The event is free for Worcester County residents. Please remember: Water-based paint will NOT be accepted. Allow it to dry or solidify with sand, kitty litter, mulch, or air-drying, then place the dried paint in your regular trash. Please help us spread the word!

Northern Worcester Athletic Complex Master Plan Meeting Moved to October 27 Due to a scheduling conflict, the public information session on the proposed master plan for the Northern Worcester Athletic Complex has been moved up one day to Tuesday, October 27, at 6 p.m. in the Stephen Decatur High School cafeteria. The meeting was previously scheduled for Wednesday, October 28. ***Learn more about the existing, 76-acre Northern Worcester Athletic Complex at worcesterrecandparks.org/par… Worcester County Recreation and Parks professionals and representatives from Davis, Bowen & Friedel will present the proposed master plan, review the park’s existing conditions and layout, identify amenities proposed to remain, and introduce proposed additions and renovations. They will also discuss the benefits and overall goals, along with the steps needed to implement the master plan. Community feedback is an important part of the master planning process, and area residents are encouraged to attend, learn more about the proposal, and share their perspectives. For more information about the Northern Worcester Athletic Complex master planning process, contact WCRP Deputy Director Jacob Stephens at (410) 632-2144, ext. 2521 or [email protected].

The Maryland’s Coast Welcome Center on MD Rt. 13 at the Maryland/Virginia line is closed for scheduled maintenance through Sun., Oct. 25. The Welcome Center will reopen Mon., Oct. 26.

Public Invited to Northern Worcester Athletic Complex Master Plan Meeting October 28 Area residents, learn about the proposed master plan for the Northern Worcester Athletic Complex during a public information session Wednesday, October 28, at 6 p.m. in the Stephen Decatur High School cafeteria. Recreation and Parks professionals and Davis, Bowen & Friedel representatives will present the proposed master plan, review the park’s existing conditions and layout, identify amenities proposed to remain, and introduce proposed additions and renovations. They will also discuss the benefits and overall goals, along with the steps needed to implement the master plan. Community feedback is an important part of the master planning process, and area residents are encouraged to attend, learn more about the proposal, and share their perspectives. For more information, contact WCRP Deputy Director Jacob Stephens at (410) 632-2144, ext. 2521 or [email protected].

Worcester County Government Operating Hours for Columbus Day Worcester County Government (WCG) offices, including Recreation and Parks, will be closed Monday, October 12, 2026, for the Columbus Day holiday. The five branch libraries will also be closed for staff training. The Central Landfill and Homeowner Convenience Centers will be open Monday during standard hours of operation. WCG offices will resume standard operating hours on Tuesday, October 13. Worcester County staff wish one and all a happy and safe holiday weekend.

Connect with local employers at the Worcester County Job & Resource Fair October 14 Pocomoke City — Job seekers are invited to explore local career opportunities at the Worcester County Job & Resource Fair on Wednesday, October 14, from 2–5 p.m. at the Pocomoke Community Center at 1410 Market Street. Whether you are an experienced professional looking to advance your career or a recent graduate ready to land your first job, the event caters to individuals at every stage of their career journey, offering openings from entry-level positions to executive roles across multiple industries. In addition to connecting directly with prospective employers, attendees can meet with specialized resources that assist with education, training, and apprenticeship opportunities to help advance their skills and job search strategies. To make the most of the event, candidates are encouraged to take the following steps: • Update Your Resume: Tailor your resume to the specific industries and positions you are targeting. Free resources for resume assistance will be available on-site. • Dress Professionally: Dress to impress and make a strong, positive first impression on prospective employers. Free professional headshots will be provided on-site. • Bring Essentials: Pack multiple printed copies of your resume, along with a notebook and pen to jot down contact details and job info. Whether you are actively job hunting or simply exploring current career paths, the Job & Resource Fair provides a direct gateway to take the next step toward your goals. The event is hosted by Worcester County Tourism & Economic Development (WCTED) in partnership with the Pocomoke Area Chamber of Commerce, Worcester County Department of Social Services, and City of Pocomoke. For updates and further information, follow Worcester County’s official social media channels and visit choosemarylandscoast.org regularly. For specific inquiries, contact Workforce Development Specialist Nancy Schwendeman at [email protected] or 410-632-3110 ext. 2120.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day Oct. 31 The Recycling Division will host Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day Saturday, Oct. 31, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Central Landfill in Newark. HHW, computer towers, and laptops may be dropped off for safe disposal. No keyboards, mouses, or other electronics will be accepted. HHW Collection Day provides an opportunity for residents to safely dispose of products containing harmful chemicals, like bleach, pesticides, pool chemicals, oil mixtures, gas and other fuels, acids, automotive fluids, thinners, as well as other items, like CFL light bulbs, batteries, and oil-based paints. Water-based paints are not hazardous materials and should not be brought to any hazardous waste event. Instead, solidify water-based paints by drying or adding absorbent materials, like sand, kitty litter, or mulch. Then place the dried paint in the trash. HHW Collection Day is open at no charge to county residents only. This event is hosted in conjunction with Maryland Environmental Services and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). MXI Environmental Services Company will be responsible for the safe disposal of all hazardous waste collected. Collecting HHW for safe disposal saves valuable landfill space and helps protect the environment, as many of these items do not degrade and contain poisonous materials that could seep out of the landfill and contaminate surrounding soil and groundwater. For more information, contact Worcester County Recycling Manager Bob Keenan at (410) 632-3177.

Waterline flushing schedule for Mystic Harbour and other area water systems The Water and Wastewater Division will begin flushing waterlines in Assateague Pointe, Edgewater Acres, Nantucket Pointe, Deer Point, Landings, Mystic Harbour, Newark, Ocean Reef, Sea Oaks, Riddle Farm and West Ocean City Service Areas between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. The following proposed Fall 2026 dates for the flushing of the waterlines are subject to change. · October 13 thru October 23 – Assateague Pointe, Deer Point, Landings, Mystic Harbour, Ocean Reef, Sea Oaks, and West Ocean City · October 21 – Newark · October 22 – Edgewater Acres and Nantucket Pointe · November 2 thru November 11 – Riddle Farm Routine flushing of the water system helps to reduce the frequency of discolored water. Public Works crews open and close the hydrants, flushing out the built-up iron deposits. Sometimes, this can lead to temporary increases in suspended iron, which should settle out within a few hours of the flushing. Please be aware that, even on dates the water lines in your section are not being flushed, it is still possible to experience discolored water. If area residents notice that their water becomes cloudy during these times, please allow the water to run for a few minutes until it becomes clear. For more information, please call the Water and Wastewater Division at (410) 641-5251.

Waterline flushing schedule for Ocean Pines and surrounding area water systems The Water and Wastewater Division will begin flushing waterlines in the Ocean Pines Service Area between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. The following proposed Fall 2026 dates for the flushing of the waterlines are subject to change. Routine flushing of the water system helps to reduce the frequency of discolored water. Public Works crews open and close the hydrants, flushing out the built-up iron deposits. Sometimes, this can lead to temporary increases in suspended iron, which should settle out within a few hours of the flushing. Please be aware that, even on dates the water lines in your section are not being flushed, it is still possible to experience discolored water. If area residents notice that their water becomes cloudy during these times, please allow the water to run for a few minutes until it becomes clear. For more information, please call the Water and Wastewater Division at (410) 641-5251.

The County Commissioners will meet Tuesday, October 6, with the regular session to begin at 10 a.m. View the agenda below or online, and watch the meeting in person or live at worcestercountymd.swagit.com….

It’s the final day of Economic Development Week—and we’re going out strong! Stop by the Maryland’s Coast office in Snow Hill today from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. for free one-on-one business sessions with SBDC Director Scott Hines. Bring your questions, talk about your business needs, and learn about resources available to help local businesses grow and thrive. From Noon - 1 p.m. join us for the Making Your Business Ready & Resilient webinar, followed by First Friday in Snow Hill from 5–8 p.m. Thank you to all of the businesses, partners, entrepreneurs, workforce professionals, and community members who helped us celebrate Economic Development Week on Maryland’s Coast! #EconomicDevelopmentWeek #MarylandsCoast #WorcesterCountyMD #SmallBusiness

Let’s talk business—tomorrow! Business owners and entrepreneurs are invited to sit down one-on-one with Scott Hines of the Small Business Development Center on Friday, Oct. 2, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at the Worcester County Economic Development office (107 West Green Street in Snow Hill). These free one-on-one sessions are an opportunity to talk about your business needs and discover resources that can help your business grow and thrive. Also on Friday, join the free Making Your Business Ready & Resilient webinar from noon–1 p.m. Then celebrate First Friday in Snow Hill from 5–8 p.m. #EconomicDevelopmentWeek #SmallBusiness #WorcesterCountyMD #MarylandsCoast #SnowHillMD

Economic Development Week continues tomorrow on Maryland’s Coast! Thursday, October 1, stop by the Maryland’s Coast office in Snow Hill from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. for our ongoing open house, or visit the American Job Center Mobile Unit at the Ocean Pines Library from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. for free career and employment resources. Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development professionals will also continue introducing some of the Worcester County businesses that help drive our local economy. Follow them on Facebook (@ChooseMarylandsCoast) and LinkedIn (@Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development). And, follow along, as we celebrate the businesses, workforce, partnerships, and people helping Worcester County thrive. #EconomicDevelopmentWeek #WorcesterCountyMD #MarylandsCoast #WorkforceDevelopment

Celebrate Economic Development Week on Maryland’s Coast Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development (WCTED) is currently celebrating Maryland Economic Development Week with free resources, workshops, networking, and community activities. Visit the WCTED office at 107 West Green Street in Snow Hill from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday and Friday to meet staff, enjoy light refreshments, and learn about resources available to support businesses and career development. “Investing in business growth is an investment in our shared future,” WCTED Business Development and Retention Specialist Michele Burke said. “When our local economies thrive, it builds a lasting sense of pride and unifies our communities.” In partnership with the Maryland Economic Development Association, WCTED is highlighting programs, partnerships, and resources that strengthen Worcester County’s economy by supporting local businesses, developing the workforce, and creating opportunities for continued growth and investment. Thursday, October 1, the Lower Shore Workforce Alliance Mobile Job Center will be at the Ocean Pines Library from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering free career and employment resources to the public. Friday, October 2, Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Director Scott Hines will offer free, confidential one-on-one small business consulting at the WCTED office from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At 1 p.m., the webinar Making Your Business Ready and Resilient will share strategies for business continuity and preparedness. WCTED will close the week from 5 - 8 p.m. during Snow Hill’s First Friday celebration, where the public is invited to support local businesses and enjoy the annual pet parade. Tuesday, October 6, the Worcester County Commissioners will recognize the local economic development efforts, resources, and opportunities that are available to residents and business owners. Wednesday, October 14, from 2 - 5 p.m. job seekers are invited to take part in the Worcester County Job and Resource Fair at the Pocomoke Community Center. Follow WCTED on Facebook (@ChooseMarylandsCoast) and LinkedIn (@Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development) for photos, video interviews with local business owners, and updates. For more information, contact Burke at 410-632-3112, x2122 or [email protected], or visit choosemarylandscoast.org.

Harbor Day at The Docks Festival October 10 Celebrate Worcester County’s rich maritime heritage at Harbor Day at the Docks on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This free, family-friendly festival will take place along Sunset Avenue in the West Ocean City commercial harbor, honoring the local watermen and commercial fishing industry that have helped shape the Eastern Shore’s coastal communities. Festivities will kick off at 10 a.m. with the Blessing of the Fleet, followed by live musical entertainment from the Jovon Newman Band and The Way Outs. At 2:30 p.m., attendees can put their appetites to the test during the Crab Cake Eating Contest, sponsored by Hoopers. The contest will take place on the main stage, with participation available on a first-come, first-served basis. Throughout the day, visitors can explore local watermen displays, interactive touch tanks, vendor demonstrations, nautical artisans, and educational exhibits. A variety of children's activities will also be available, such as performances by Cascading Carlos, crafts, and fishermen offering hands-on opportunities for families to learn about the area's maritime traditions and coastal environment. Enjoy a variety of delicious food trucks and beverage options, including fresh, locally caught seafood straight from the boat! Beverages will also be available, including a crush bar hosted by Forgotten 50, local craft brews from Burley Oak, and of course fresh squeezed lemonade! The U.S. Coast Guard will be on-site to provide water safety information and offer Coast Guard boat tours. Visitors looking to experience the harbor from a different perspective can also enjoy free harbor tours aboard the Bay Hopper, offering a unique opportunity to see the working waterfront from the water. “Come out and join us for some family-friendly fun as we honor Worcester County’s vibrant maritime past,” Recreation and Parks Deputy Director Jacob Stephens said. For more information, visit harbordayoc.com, follow @harbordayoc on social media, or contact Kyle Jarmon at 410-632-2144, ext. 2519, or [email protected].

TRAFFIC ALERT: SHA to close section of MD Rt. 707 (GRAYS CORNER ROAD) Beginning September 29 SHA will close a section of MD 707 (Grays Corner Road) Tuesday, September 29, so Worcester County Public Works can perform utility inspections and repairs. The work, which will require a closure on MD 707 between MD 589 (Racetrack Road) and Riddle Lane in Berlin, is expected to be complete by Friday, October 2, weather permitting. Atlantic Traffic Safety, Inc. of Berlin will use variable message signs, arrow boards, and cones to safely guide motorists through the detour route to U.S. Rt. 50.

Worcester County Launches Interactive Rezoning Map Development Review and Permitting (DRP), in partnership with Geographic Information Systems staff, launched an interactive webmap that makes it easier for residents to follow rezoning applications as they move through the public review process. “This resource gives residents an opportunity to learn about rezoning applications before a public hearing is scheduled and to follow each case as it progresses,” DRP Director Jennifer Keener said. “Our goal is to make the process easier to understand and provide convenient access to information residents need to stay informed about land-use matters affecting their communities.” The interactive webmap displays the locations of active and pending County rezoning cases. By selecting a case on the map, users can view available documents, including applications, staff reports and findings, as they are added throughout the review process. The map currently includes rezoning cases submitted during the past five years and will be updated as cases advance through the review process. The new Rezoning Applications webpage also outlines steps involved in a rezoning, anticipated review timelines, public-notification requirements, applicable review standards, and appeal procedures. Visitors can also access the County’s zoning map, zoning code, Comprehensive Plan, and application materials. Explore the interactive map at worcestermd.gov/departments/…. Full case files and additional information can be obtained by contacting DRP at 410-632-1200.