CHESAPEAKE BEACH, Md. — The Town Council has taken significant steps to address structural issues at the Chesapeake Beach Aquatics facility, authorizing geo-technical studies and the creation of a conceptual design plan for future improvements. These actions come in response to the facility’s prolonged operational challenges and the necessity to ensure safety and longevity for the municipally owned water park.
In May 2024, the Town Council initiated geo-technical evaluations by Hillis-Carnes Engineering Consultants to examine the support structures and pilings under the aquatics facility. These exploratory studies are crucial to understanding the current conditions and devising a plan for necessary repairs and enhancements. During the June 20, 2024, meeting, the Council further approved a contract with Emerald Fx to develop a comprehensive conceptual design and generate budgetary estimates for the required improvements.
The Chesapeake Beach Water Park, the only municipally owned water park in Maryland, has served the community from its central town location for 29 years, exceeding its intended 25-year lifespan. The aging infrastructure, coupled with the dynamic conditions of the tidal wetland on which it is built, has necessitated substantial repairs and reconfiguration. Consequently, the park is closed for the 2024 season to facilitate these essential upgrades.
The park’s unique location on a tidal wetland has led to significant structural issues. While most of the park is supported by pilings, large areas are not, causing portions of the park to sink. This sinking has resulted in the cracking and disconnection of mechanical support systems vital for pool operation. These systems are situated in confined, unstable spaces, making it unsafe for staff to perform necessary maintenance and operations, thereby impacting the park’s functionality.
In addressing these challenges, the Town Council and staff are committed to a swift and efficient restoration of the park. The goal is to rebuild the facility on the existing pilings to ensure it remains a viable asset for another 25 years. Community feedback is integral to the planning process, and the Town has sought input to inform the design and construction phases.
Initially, the Town sought a design/build firm to oversee the entire project but received no interest due to the site’s conditions and the project’s complexities. As a result, the Council authorized additional expenditures for comprehensive surveying, geo-technical studies, and a feasibility study. These efforts aim to document the current site conditions thoroughly and estimate the costs associated with the necessary improvements.
Town officials acknowledge the challenges posed by the park’s closure and the extensive work required. However, they emphasize the importance of ensuring the facility’s safety and sustainability for future generations. The ongoing geo-technical evaluations and the forthcoming conceptual design plan are critical steps in achieving these objectives.
The Chesapeake Beach Water Park has been a cherished recreational amenity for nearly three decades, providing enjoyment and employment opportunities for the community. The current initiatives reflect the Town’s dedication to preserving and enhancing this vital resource, ensuring it continues to benefit the citizens of Chesapeake Beach for many years to come.
