Sean O'Neill

It has come to our attention that the TriRock organization wishes to close one of the main thoroughfares into our city – our harbor – during our busiest of seasons. The Annapolis Business Association, representing approximately 100 businesses in the City of Annapolis, respectfully asks that this request be denied. We see visitors from far and near that make Annapolis a “Port of Call” for provisioning and visiting. Boat traffic has an important positive economic impact on our merchants during the summer months and closing the harbor would be a hindrance for our ability to do business. Additionally, we have marine businesses that have regularly scheduled tours or charters sold in advance that require the harbor be open in order to operate. These tours and charters bring visitors into town that are beneficial to our economy and displacing them is in no way advantageous. It is also worth noting that each of these businesses employs a large number of our workforce and the harbor closure will cause a reduction of income, as they will be working less hours. There is a cascading effect to this decision that reaches beyond the harbor. We see this request as far too reaching and a detriment to our city’s businesses. Sincerely, Sean O'Neill President Annapolis Business Assocation