At the MACo Summer Conference, panelists discussed their work to establish a recreational ferry system on the Chesapeake.
MACo is proud to offer a wide variety of educational topics and discussions as part of its Summer Conference. Topics range from parks and recreation to Artificial Intelligence to budgeting and everything in between. As a special session in 2024, MACo hosted an in-depth look at the feasibility study results for the proposed Chesapeake Bay Ferry System. Learn more and plan to attend:
- Title: Navigating Opportunity: Results of the 5-County Coalition on the Chesapeake Bay Ferry System Feasibility Study
- Description: The Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Feasibility Study aims to revitalize water transportation connectivity and economic growth in waterfront destinations. With a rich maritime history, the Bay has the opportunity to once again become a vital transportation gateway for residents and visitors alike. The study seeks to assess the viability of a new passenger ferry service that could enhance access to the Bay, stimulate economic development, and promote tourism throughout the region. By evaluating these possibilities, the study aims to lay the foundation for a future where the Chesapeake Bay serves as a thriving hub for water activities and tourism. The results of the study will be presented by representatives of the coalition.
- Speakers:
- Kristen Pironis, Executive Director, Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County
- Clint Sterling, Director, Somerset County Department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism
- Heather Tinelli, Director, Queen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development
- Hilary Dailey, Tourism Program Specialist, Calvert County Government
- Ben Cohen, Development Facilitator, St. Mary’s Department of Economic Development
- Moderator: The Honorable Jack Wilson, Commissioner, Queen Anne’s County
Panelists include representatives from: @VisitAnnapolis, #SomersetCountyMD, @QACGOV, @StMarysCoGov, @calvertcountymd
— Dominic J. Butchko (@DomButchko_MACo) August 15, 2024
Expected revenues of roughly $2.4M & avg ride will cost $10 per hour. $200 per passenger is expected to be spent in each community, with a forecasted 50k passengers per year.
That’s $10M in tourism dollars per year!
— Dominic J. Butchko (@DomButchko_MACo) August 15, 2024