Public Water Access Committee Chair Lisa Arrowsmith addresses Discovery Village boat ramp closure

Residents of Anne Arundel County are facing uncertainty regarding public access to boating facilities as discussions surrounding the closure of the Discovery Village public boat ramp continue. Lisa Arrowsmith, chair of the Public Water Access Committee, addressed the County Council during their recent meeting, emphasizing the need for transparency and action regarding public access to waterways.

Arrowsmith highlighted a recurring suggestion to replace public boat ramps with a system involving private marinas. She referenced a comprehensive study commissioned by the county between 2016 and 2018, which sought to evaluate existing boat ramps. Despite extensive outreach efforts, the study yielded no positive responses from private marina owners, with many expressing strong opposition to the idea of public access through their facilities.

The study, which cost approximately $50,000, remains relevant as marina ownership tends to change slowly. Arrowsmith urged the council to revisit the findings of this study before considering new proposals for public access. She stressed the importance of understanding the community's needs and the historical context of previous discussions on this topic.

The meeting also touched on other community concerns, but Arrowsmith's remarks underscored the critical need for accessible public boating facilities in the county. As the council moves forward, the implications of these discussions will be closely watched by residents who rely on public access to waterways for recreation and transportation.