A project to rebuild the Ocean City Boardwalk between Sixth Street and Plaza Place was completed last month. Work will continue next year in a multiphase project.
City Council will vote Thursday on a plan to spend about $80 million catch up on long-neglected improvements to roads, public facilities, beaches, the boardwalk and the bay in Ocean City.
At is public meeting 7 p.m. March 12 at City Hall, Council will consider a resolution to approve a five-year capital plan in which Mayor Jay Gillian’s administration proposes spending $79.4 million.
The spending plan for 2015 through 2019 represents a $27.8 million increase over the five-year plan for 2014 to 2018.
Gillian’s plan increases spending on bayside dredging from $2 million to $10 million over the next five years. It doubles the pace of multiyear boardwalk reconstruction project. And it dedicates $29.3 million to roads and drainage improvements alone — including about $7.9 million for 2015.
Read more about the proposed capital plan and see links to full detail.
Despite the massive financial commitment, some in town have questioned priorities in the plan. The meeting on Thursday includes public comment.
The plan will be financed by borrowing money and takes advantage of historically low interest rates and Ocean City's exceptional bond rating.
In a separate vote on Thursday, City Council will consider a bond ordinance authorizing the borrowing of $7.9 million for the following capital projects:
- $3,985,000: For continued phases of a multi-year boardwalk reconstruction project.
- $1,910,000: For construction and repair of public buildings, including historic Life Saving Station, Ocean City Community Center, 46th Street and West Avenue (published documentation does not specify which building), Route 52 Welcome Center, Humane Society, Ocean City Municipal Airport and others.
- $962,000: Improvement of public facilities including tennis courts, basketball courts, ball fields and playgrounds.
- $750,300: Equipment for Ocean City Music Pier, Ocean City Police Department, Fire Department and Beach Patrol.
For full detail on all agenda items from Thursday's meeting, see documentation below.
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