OCEAN CITY, Md. - The iconic Ocean City Fishing Pier looks a little different now. Crews have replaced the fencing on a portion of the pier, removing padlocks that had accumulated on fencing over the years.
Those 'love locks' held special meaning to a lot of people. But signs are posted urging people not to attach a lock.
Jodi Baker from Hanover, Pennsylvania placed a love lock on the pier back in 2021 with her husband, who has since passed away from COVID.
"It's sad because I'm sure I'm not the only one who placed a lock and maybe lost a spouse. I enjoyed going back after years past, I enjoyed going back and seeing that, it was like we were still there together, like he was still there," she said.
The town of Ocean City tells WBOC they understand the love locks hold a special place in the hearts of many. But that after years of salt air and water, the fence had significantly rusted and it was necessary to replace it for safety reasons.
A statement from a town spokesperson said in part "While we understand the sentiment behind the locks, our commitment to preserving the beauty and accessibility of this cherished spot is important and we kindly ask that visitors refrain from placing locks on the fence."
However, love locks remain on the portion of the pier further from the main land. No signs are posted there. We asked the town if that portion could be next to have the lock-covered fencing removed, but did not hear back.
Fisherman Nicholas Siefert says the locks have posed a problem for him as he's reeling in a catch.
"I caught a stingray yesterday and as I'm running down the pier, my jacket's getting caught on them. It's just harder for me to reach the fish," he said.
Ocean City homeowner Jana Mattheu does not see a problem with the locks.
"Thrasher fries and all the carnival rides, the memories that come here I think are special and the locks are part of that," she said.