Maryland State Facilities Management

The Maryland State Facilities Management Program ensures that State-owned and state-leased marina facilities remain intact and viable. Two State-owned facilities, Somers Cove Marina in Somerset County and Fort Washington Marina in Prince George’s County, are the primary focus of this program. Staff is responsible for operations, oversees the completion of capital projects, and represents the Department’s interests at these facilities.

Facilities Management Staff

• Participate in the development and implementation of long range policies, programs, and plans including strategies to enhance and expand marina services


• Serve as Maryland’s primary point of contact/liaison for issues related to operation of Somers Cove and Fort Washington Marina.


• Undertake and oversee outreach and advertising to increase visibility and promote overall boating in Maryland.


• Apply for federal financial assistance to assist with program costs.


• Work with City and County Governments and other partners to assure a cooperative effort towards a long-term mutually beneficial relationship.

The Facilities Management staff contact is Mike Grant 410-260-8013 or mgrant@dnr.state.md.us

Somers Cove

In 2009, the DNR Boating Services Unit worked closely with the State Legislature to create the Somers Cove Marina Commission, a quasi-governmental organization that is responsible for operating the marina. The Commission is comprised of 2 members from the City of Crisfield, 2 from Somerset County, and 3 appointed by the DNR Secretary; 1 from DNR, and 2 slip holders. The Commission is managed by the Executive Director who is a DNR employee. DNR maintains oversight through the Facilities Management Program whose Manager is also a member of the Commission.

This 515 slip marina is located in historic Crisfield, Maryland and offers access to many of Somerset County's finest attractions. All slips at the marina include electric, fresh water hookups, use of the marina swimming pool, grills, picnic tables and other facilities. There are 100 dedicated transient slips, tents and pavilions available by reservation, on a first-come, first-served basis. The marina is a short walk to the historic Crisfield Center and is a state-certified  Clean Marina.

CREATING A GREENER, MORE SUSTAINABLE MARINA

Somers Cove Marina has undertaken several projects that will be of great benefit to annual slip holders and transient boaters in addition to supporting “green” and sustainable practices. A list of some of the efforts includes:

• Grants from the Waterway Improvement Program facilitated the removal of two large derelict barges from Somers Cove waters which were then recycled.


• Over 250 plants, shrubs and trees were planted in an effort to make the marina grounds more appealing to the eye and moderate the effects of storm water run off.


• Construction of a new fuel pier and floating docks will be complete in the near future, providing more efficient fuel delivery and modern dockage for slip holders and visitors. This $1.1 million project will replace docks constructed in the 1960’s.


• New decorative fencing will replace over 2,200 linear feet of chain-link fencing. Some of the old fencing is being donated to the local school to enclose the playground, and the remainder will be recycled.


• The Marina is working with the City of Crisfield to address Sea Level Rise by installing a number of new flood gates in existing storm drains in and around the Marina. The gates allow water to flow out but prevent high tides from coming in.


• Plans are well underway for installing 50,000 sq ft of solar panels to the Marina to provide a greener, more sustainable form of electricity. In addition, electric meters will be installed at all boat slips to encourage more efficient use of electricity and energy savings.

Many times during the year the Marina becomes the center of activity and events like: The Annual Tawes Clam and Crab Bake; the July 4th fireworks in the Marina’s basin; and The Waterman’s Festival for the Hard Crab Derby will continue to draw visitors to Somers Cove Marina.

Somers Cove Marina is the departure point for historic Smith and Tangier Islands’. It is the first stop in Maryland for those heading North up the Bay and the last for those heading South. We think it’s the best spot on the Bay! “Close to the Bay...More time to Play!

GO TO THE SOMERS COVE MARINA OFFICIAL WEB SITE - www.somerscovemarina.com.

Somers Cove Marina in Somerset County

Fort Washington Marina

Fort Washington Marina is located on Federal land, owned by the State of Maryland and operated under a long term lease agreement with a private contractor, Coastal Properties. The Facilities Management Program is responsible for major capital projects and necessary renovations while the contractor is responsible for day-to-day expenses.

The marina is located just south of Washington D.C., on Piscataway Creek with easy access to the Potomac River. It is a modern 10 acre facility with 300 slips and new concrete floating docks for boats up to 60' and 5' draft. Services offered include: fuel, pump-out, ice, laundry, boat ramp, boatyard facilities and casual upscale restaurant with waterfront dining. Fort Washington is a state-certified Clean Marina.

GO TO FORT WASHINGTON MARINA’S OFFICIAL WEB SITE
www.coastal-properties.com/ftwashington.html

Fort Washington Marina in Prince George's County