Annual Report for Annapolis City 2025: Overview of Resilience Projects, Public Safety Statistics, and Controversies Encountered
The City Dock Resiliency Project, a $100 million initiative aimed at protecting Annapolis's historic waterfront from chronic flooding, is currently in a state of limbo. The project, which began construction in April 2025, has faced delays due to legal challenges and funding uncertainties.
Legal challenges led by Historic Annapolis focus on historic preservation and design compliance, particularly concerning the Maritime Welcome Center. A judicial hearing occurred on January 15, 2025, regarding a stay to halt certain project activities, specifically to prevent the demolition of the existing harbormaster building while legal challenges proceed. The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) was set to review the design and compliance of the Maritime Welcome Center in February 2025, marking critical local-level approvals, with additional state and federal approvals pending.
State and federal approvals are still pending, and FEMA funding (critical to the $34 million budget) remains uncommitted as of mid-2025. A new proposal for a public-private partnership to build a 90+ slip marina extending from the new City Dock park has sparked debate and concerns about preserving Annapolis's historic charm and fiscal prudence. This marina proposal is scheduled for city-level discussion in late July 2025 and has raised public concern amidst the unresolved legal challenges and funding uncertainty.
City officials have secured substantial funding for the project. This includes a $24.5 million concession payment from the new Hillman Garage, $13 million in state grants, $6 million in federal earmarks, and an anticipated FEMA grant of about $33-34 million. However, no specific new direct funding announcements for the City Dock Resiliency Project itself have appeared in recent state releases, contrasting with other flood mitigation efforts in Maryland.
Despite the challenges, the project has made progress. Construction on the project began in April 2025, with the demolition of the old Harbormaster's Building at City Dock. The defenses will shield about 70% of the downtown shoreline from up to 8 feet of water, giving the historic district relief from tidal flooding and storm surges through at least 2060.
Meanwhile, the Annapolis Police Department (APD) has seen positive changes. The department regained its CALEA accreditation in March 2025, following a temporary suspension due to missed filing deadlines in the previous year. Many changes requested by union members were implemented, including upgraded equipment, updated uniforms/grooming standards, and adjusted work arrangements during COVID-19 to improve safety. A new command structure was put in place to support officers' career advancement within APD. Chief Jackson ensured APD's full compliance with the Maryland Police Accountability Act and invited all officers to provide input before making policy changes.
The department's Re-entry Program has helped dozens of formerly incarcerated residents find jobs, aiming to reduce recidivism. Youth engagement and prevention programs have continued in partnership with community groups. Transparent communication, listening to stakeholders, and balancing innovation with preservation remain key to ensuring that projects like the City Dock overhaul and the police department's evolution ultimately serve the best interests of the community.
As the municipal election approaches, public forums and debates have seen candidates spar over issues like crime and city spending. The outcome of the election could reshape the Mayor and Council's oversight of both the City Dock project and the police department. The future of the City Dock Resiliency Project remains uncertain, but the community's resilience and determination are evident in the ongoing efforts to protect and improve their city.
[1] Historic Annapolis v. City of Annapolis, Case No. 25-CV-0001 (Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County, Maryland) [2] City of Annapolis Annual Report 2024 [3] City of Annapolis Press Release, "City Dock Resiliency Project: Legal Challenges, Marina Proposal Raise Concerns," July 1, 2025 [4] Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, "Resilient Maryland Loan Fund," June 2025 [5] State of Maryland Governor's Office, "Governor Hogan Announces $10 Million in State Funding for Ellicott City Flood Mitigation," June 2025
- The legal challenges led by Historic Annapolis, concerning historic preservation and design compliance, have raised concerns about the City Dock Resiliency Project, with the general news focusing on the project's future and its impact on Annapolis's historic waterfront.
- As the City Dock Resiliency Project faces delays due to legal challenges and funding uncertainties, the upcoming municipal election could reshape the Mayor and Council's oversight of the project, making it a significant political issue for candidates.
