Leonardtown Seeks to Obtain Additional Wharf Property

LEONARDTOWN - 2/10/2009

On Feb. 9, a proposed ordinance was introduced for consideration by the Town Council to condemn certain property commonly known as the Leonardtown Wharf project.

The purpose of the ordinance is to allow the Town to proceed in a condemnation action to acquire properties and rights for the continued revitalization of the Leonardtown Wharf area.  This property consists of two parcels and certain riparian rights. 

The Town Council has expressed a strong desire that the site be designed with the interests of the public’s safety in mind.  Mayor J. Harry Norris commented, “We initiated a study concerning parking and traffic flow and it was clear to the Council that condemnation would be the best avenue in reaching a design with optimum parking and safety in mind.”  In addition to a possible expansion of the Town Park it is anticipated that the project will continue to have a mixed use component as planned. 

This project continues to be an important economic development tool for the entire County.

Negotiations with the owner have been unsuccessful to date.

Mayor Norris commented, “This property is the centerpiece of a continued effort towards revitalization of an existing blighted piece of property.”  Today with the introduction of this ordinance it will ensure that the Town has control of the development and to ensure, among other things, adequate safety for pedestrians and unimpeded traffic flow.