The Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Consortium, representing Anne Arundel, Calvert, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, and St. Mary’s counties, unveiled the findings of a feasibility study for a Chesapeake Bay passenger ferry system at the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Conference on August 15, 2024, in Ocean City, MD.
During the MACo’s Solutions Showcase, the study, titled “Navigating Opportunity: Results of the 5-County Coalition on the Chesapeake Bay Ferry System Feasibility Study,” was presented, revealing promising opportunities for transportation and economic growth across 21 coastal communities in Maryland.
Cambridge Systematics, Inc., the firm behind the year-long study, identified 14 key communities that could benefit significantly from the proposed Baseline Passenger Ferry System. The initiative aims to restore vital water connectivity, promote tourism, and boost local economies by linking residents and visitors to bayside destinations.
Findings indicate that the regional ferry system could generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and increased tourism revenue. Community support was also evident, with sixty-seven percent of survey respondents expressing interest in the ferry service, and sixty-two percent of community partners keen on engaging in activities for visitors and residents.
Kristen Pironis, executive director of Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, emphasized the transformative potential of the project: “Five counties across the state joined forces to work on this effort. As we explore next steps, this opportunity can expand to include partners across the Bay. We are optimistic about the study results and the path forward, which could better connect our Chesapeake Bay destinations and create economic impact across the entire state.”
The consortium members provided insights on the study’s implications and the anticipated benefits. Calvert County Commissioner President Earl “Buddy” Hance noted, “The ferry service could provide a new transportation link for our community and has the potential to significantly enhance tourism and boost the local economy for not just Calvert County, but all of the Chesapeake Bay region. We look forward to collaborating with our neighboring counties to further explore this opportunity.”
Other regional leaders echoed this sentiment. Heather Tinelli, Director of Queen Anne’s County Economic and Tourism Development, highlighted the unique economic development opportunity the ferry system presents. Charles Laird, President of the Somerset County Commissioners, also expressed enthusiasm for pursuing the project’s next steps in collaboration with partners.
Chris Kaselemis, AICP Director, Department of Economic Development for St. Mary’s County, pointed out that the ferry project aligns with their Tourism and Hospitality Master Plan and the County Comprehensive Plan to expand water access along their nearly 500 miles of shoreline.
The complete report and further details on the proposed ferry system can be accessed at www.ChesapeakeBayFerry.com.