New Park Will Fight Sea Level Rise At Annapolis City Dock

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Annapolis on Monday collected millions of dollars to fight sea level rise at City Dock.

The federal money will help build an elevated park and flood mitigation devices in an area known for inundation. Tidal flooding poured over City Dock and swamped surrounding streets the day of the announcement.

"City Dock is what Annapolis is all about — its waterfront, its history, its future," Sen. Ben Cardin (D) said on Facebook. "We announced an additional $3.46 million in federal funding to make City Dock more resilient to the impacts of climate change and the significant flooding that has only increased in recent years."

Rep. John Sarbanes (D- District 3) said the money comes from the "bipartisan federal budget bill."

The first phase of the Annapolis flood mitigation plan is already underway.

The city demolished the old Hillman Garage in spring 2022 and is currently building a larger and greener replacement with electric vehicle charging.

A group of private companies will lease the garage from the city for 30 years, collecting most of the parking revenue during that time.

The companies, known as the Annapolis Mobility & Resilience Partners, will give the city $20 million to $25 million in return. The city will put this money toward the park.

The garage and park project will cost $50 million to $70 million, WMAR reported. The TV station said the City of Annapolis has already secured about $40 million.

The $28.26 million parking garage reached its maximum height in February and is on track to open this June.

Park construction will begin after this October's boat shows, WJZ reported. The city previously estimated that the park will cost at least $35 million.

"City Dock is an iconic fixture in the heart of Annapolis," Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D) said on Facebook. "But like many coastal communities, Annapolis and the businesses around City Dock are under serious threat from climate change-driven extreme weather that destroys property and causes real economic harm. We need urgent action to preserve and revitalize City Dock."

Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley (D) thanked Maryland's congressional delegation for its support. Buckley told WJZ that the funding will help protect the city from 8.5 feet of sea level rise.

"I’ve always believed partnerships are the key to success," Buckley said on Facebook. "I am deeply grateful for their support, and their commitment to ensuring a vibrant and resilient future for our state capital."

Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman (D) and State Sen. Sarah Elfreth (D-District 30) were also on hand for Monday's announcement.

To see sketches of the garage and the park, click here. Read the latest garage construction update at this link.