With approval from Governor Larry Hogan and the Maryland State Legislature, the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Department of Natural Resources have combined to allocate $1.1 million to support work on the Chestertown Marina. These funds augment another $1.7 million from U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities and Rural Development Block Grant Programs, Maryland Heritage Areas Authority and other state and federal sources to total an immediately available $2.8 million.
The Chestertown Waterfront Coalition, comprised of representatives from the Kent County Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Chestertown Association, Greater Chestertown Initiative, and the Sultana Education Foundation, are managing the project, which initially includes dredging, bulkhead replacement, a new boat ramp, and a new pedestrian walkway.
The second phase will commence this fall with new floating docks, property grading, newly configured parking, and landscaping.
Also in the works are new construction on the Chestertown Waterfront Interpretive Center and design work for a Water Street entrance. The Interpretive Center will have a marina store, public restrooms, showers, retail space, and a second floor and deck for public events.
Chestertown bought the property in 2012 to ensure public access and promote the town’s maritime amenities.
