Save the C&O Canal from intrusive development!
DEFENDERS OF POTOMAC RIVER PARKLAND
NPS Conducting Study on Georgetown Boathouse Zone, Accepting Public Comment
Background: On December 13, 2011, the National Park Service held a public meeting on a study of the feasibility of a non-motorized boathouse zone along a portion of the Georgetown waterfront. The study is an opportunity to move toward suitable plans for improved river access for boaters in the area. Depending on its outcome, however, the study might become a step toward intrusive private construction within the C&O Canal National Historical Park.The meeting included a slide presentation and remarks by: Peter May, Associate Regional Director of NPS' National Capital Region; Tara Morrison, Superintendent of Rock Creek Park; Kevin Brandt, Superintendent of the C&O Canal National Historical Park; and members of the Louis Berger Group, a consulting firm assisting the feasibility study.
Purpose: The focus of the study was described as examining ways to enhance river access for user groups and determining what facilities can be accommodated in the zone under consideration.
Area of the zone: From Key Bridge, the zone extends upriver for 1,200 feet (a figure that NPS described as approximate). It therefore includes important areas of the C&O Canal NHP on both sides of the Washington Canoe Club. The zone also includes private and public properties beneath and near Key Bridge on both sides. It is bounded on the east by the new Georgetown Waterfront Park, which is excluded. The zone does not include any land or facility further downriver, or the Virginia shore of the Potomac. (See zone map.)
Public input: NPS is accepting public comment through its project website through March 30, 2012. NPS is also holding stakeholder meetings, which began in late January, with organizations such as user groups, universities, and citizens associations. The agency also plans a public workshop on March 3 at which possible scenarios will be developed. Another public meeting in the spring or early summer is expected to provide an opportunity to comment on the study as developed at that point.
Study Outcome: The study is described as providing a foundation for future NPS decisions. These may include possible development or improvement of NPS facilities and/or further planning or compliance under environmental legislation. The Environmental Impact Study (EIS) on the massive Georgetown University boathouse proposed for a site within the borders of the C&O Canal NHP is on hold, but may be reopened in the future.
Conclusion: The zone feasibility study may aid in a satisfactory resolution of the longstanding boathouse controversy. Intrusive private development within the C&O Canal National Historical Park must be prevented, but other solutions are available. All who support the broad public interest in maintaining the historical and natural assets of the C&OCNHP are urged stay informed on the process of the feasibility study and to express their views.
