Maritime Resiliency

Since Annapolis was chartered in 1708, and long before, when native people lived here and then settlers arrived, our waterfront location has defined our history, prosperity, and way of life. Our 22 miles of coastline have been both a boon and a burden, especially today, as flooding hits record levels and pressure increases on our shorelines, fisheries, and coastal ecosystems. 

Something that weighs on me is how to keep the waterfront vibrant for business and leisure while addressing flooding, development, water quality, and other pressing issues. Some brief thoughts:

• We must move forward with the City Dock Project and its system of pumps, deployable barriers, and raised green spaces, while keeping it on time and on budget—and ensuring the waterfront stays welcoming to locals and visitors. As mayor, I pledge to keep the public informed. We must also explore solutions for flood-prone neighborhoods beyond the City Dock.

• I support the long-standing liveaboard community as an important part of Annapolis’s maritime heritage, and I oppose using houseboats and house barges as short-term rentals. Clear, consistent rules are essential to protect water quality, safety, and the harbor’s authentic character.

• Annapolis’s four Maritime Zoning Districts were established in 1987 to protect and promote the maritime industry, and we must uphold these safeguards for boatyards, marinas, and marine service businesses. Our maritime culture is central to our city’s identity. Measures will include guarding against rezoning or redevelopment that displaces marine trade, keeping restaurants in the maritime zones within the 2,000 square foot limit, and supporting maritime innovation and workforce development.

Other priorities include expanding water access for residents (ramps, launches, storage), maintaining reliable pump-out services, enhancing access to after-rain bacteria advisories to help families know when to swim and paddle safely, improving street-end parks, and so much more. 

The list is longer than I can cite here, but every item supports keeping our waterfront city beautiful, healthy, accessible, and enjoyable for all.

Warm regards,

Jared

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