Save the C&O Canal from intrusive development!
DEFENDERS OF POTOMAC RIVER PARKLAND
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Q: What's wrong with letting Georgetown University build a boathouse for its rowing team?A: The Defenders of Potomac River Parkland are NOT against a new boathouse for GU -- but we DO oppose building an intrusive private facility within the C&O Canal National Historical Park
Q: What is the C&O Canal National Historical Park?
A: Established by Congress, the C&O Canal National Historical Park preserves the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which runs between Georgetown and Cumberland, Md., as well as the canal's scenic and natural environment. It is among the most popular of all national parks, and is treasured by local residents and by visitors from all over the country.
Q: Where is Georgetown University's preferred site for the proposed boathouse?
A: GU wishes to place an extremely large boathouse in a wooded area of shoreline that is just upriver from the historic Washington Canoe Club. The site is in a narrow section of the C&O Canal National Historical Park that is the gateway to the Capital Crescent Trail and to the natural areas of the canal towpath. This was designated the preferred site in a never-completed Environmental Assessment. A subsequent Environmental Impact Statement process is now on hold.
Q: What's wrong with the preferred site?
A: If approved, the massive building would block views of the river, disrupt the trails, destroy trees and natural habitat, compromise historic values, and set a precedent for private development in other areas of a park that should be open to enjoyment by everyone.
Q: What's the current status of this issue?
A: The National Park Service is conducting a feasibility study to implement a non-motorized boathouse zone along the Georgetown waterfront. The feasibility study will examine what boating-related structures and facilities can be accomodated within the zone, which includes important sections of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The study may recommend positive solutions that do not involve compromising the C&O Canal NHP. On the other hand, it might lead toward approval of intrusive development within the canal park.
Q: What can I do to prevent intrusion on the C&O Canal National Historical Park?
A: Through March 30, 2012, you can voice support for protecting the C&O Canal NHP through the NPS project website on the boathouse zone study. Attend public meetings that NPS plans to announce. As the feasibility study develops, be prepared to express your support for protecting the National Historical Park by sending a letter to media and officials. (See Take Action.)
Q: How can I find out more about this issue?
A: Explore this website for: news and updates; maps and images, including possible boathouse sites outside of the C&O Canal NHP; background information on earlier phases of the boathouse controversy, including letters by members of the Defenders of Potomac River Parkland.