CRISFIELD, Md. — Crisfield leaders are considering several new concepts for the future of the City Dock, with ideas ranging from new gathering spaces and seating to additional waterfront amenities.
Councilman Eric Banks presented updated conceptual renderings during the Aug. 12 Mayor and Council meeting, giving city leaders and the community a look at several possibilities for the waterfront.
The concepts include an elevated viewing area, a covered stage and event space, sunset-oriented seating, vendor kiosks and restrooms.
The proposals also include improved accessibility and infrastructure for lighting, sound and marine transportation.
The City Dock has long been a gathering place for neighbors and visitors, and city leaders are also considering how improvements could support tourism, local businesses and economic development.
Jerry Smith of Smith Island says he believes improvements to the waterfront could benefit the city by attracting more visitors.
“I would think it would help tourism a lot,” Smith said. “That's what...this place needs. It needs a big injection of tourism.”
Smith also says he believes money spent on projects that bring people to Crisfield can benefit the community.
“It seems like any money you spend in this town to attract people is going to be a good investment,” Smith told WBOC.
Franklin Marshall of Crisfield says he supports improvements to the waterfront, but believes parking should also be part of the conversation.
“Parking is terrible down here,” Marshall said. “I mean, people come down here to watch boats leave and everything.”
Not everyone believes improvements to the dock should be a priority.
Donald Brooks Jr. of Crisfield says he thinks the city should address other needs before moving forward with some of the proposed changes.
“It's a great idea, but I feel that they're putting the cart before the horse,” Brooks said.
Brooks also questioned whether the city should spend money on some of the proposed additions.
“It's just money that should be spent elsewhere, instead of putting up a big Welcome to Crisfield sign at the docks,” Brooks told WBOC.
City leaders say the renderings are conceptual and are meant to show possibilities for the future of the City Dock. No approved design has been announced.
The city is asking neighbors and other community members to share their thoughts as discussions continue over what the waterfront could look like in the future.
