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Could the Chesapeake Bay ferry become a reality? Study suggests

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A ferry across the Chesapeake Bay could become a viable option, according to a new study by a five-county group released Thursday.

“Navigating Opportunity: Results of the 5-County Coalition on the Chesapeake Bay Ferry System Feasibility Study” concluded that there is a “promising” opportunity for development. The Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Consortium is comprised of representatives from Anne Arundel, Calvert, Queen Anne's, Somerset and St. Mary's counties.

“Somerset County is pleased to be a member of the Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Feasibility Study Consortium,” said Charles Laird, President of the Somerset County Commissioners. “We are excited to release the results of this comprehensive study and are eager to take the next steps in the process in collaboration with our partners. The potential realization of this ambitious project could have significant economic impact for Somerset and the region.”

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The study identified a promising opportunity to improve transportation and economic growth in 21 coastal communities in Maryland.

According to a statement from the consortium, the initiative aims to “restore vital water connectivity, promote tourism and boost the local economy by connecting residents and visitors to bayside destinations.” The proposed Baseline Passenger Ferry System, which will initially focus on 14 key communities, has the potential to generate significant regional economic benefits, including job creation and increased tourism revenue, according to the commission.

“The Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Feasibility Study and the Chesapeake Bay Passenger Ferry Consortium demonstrate the transformative potential of our region,” said Kristen Pironis, executive director of Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County. “Five counties across the state have joined forces to work on this project. As we explore next steps, this opportunity may expand to include partners from across the Bay. We are optimistic about the study's findings and the path forward that could better connect our Chesapeake Bay destinations and create economic impact.”

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The study, conducted by Cambridge Systematics, Inc., also found that community partners and stakeholders have significant support for a regional ferry system: 67% of survey respondents expressed interest in the ferry service and 62% of community partners were interested in engaging activities for visitors and residents.

The results of the year-long study were presented during the Maryland Association of Counties' Solutions Showcase conference in Ocean City, which runs through August 17.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the five-county consortium as we enter the next phase of this initiative,” said Heather Tinelli, Queen Anne's County Director of Economic and Tourism Development.

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