Berlin Residents Voice Concerns Over Proposed Ocean City Sports Complex
A community information session held Saturday in Berlin revealed strong emotions surrounding a proposed multi-million dollar sports complex planned near Stephen Decatur High School. While Ocean City officials envision the complex as a potential economic boon, many Berlin residents expressed concerns about traffic, pedestrian safety, and the overall impact on their town.
A Collaborative Project, But With Local Impact
The proposed complex is being directed by Ocean City, with the town of Berlin involved in a collaborative role. Mayor Zach Tyndall emphasized that Berlin’s involvement is to ensure community feedback is considered before any decisions are made. “The town of Berlin is not running point on this project,” he stated. “If a site comes close to Berlin, we want to hear directly from the community.” The nearly 100-acre site adjacent to Stephen Decatur High School is currently considered favorable, but no final decisions have been made.
Funding and Economic Potential
Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan clarified that the sports complex would be funded entirely through the town’s Room Tax revenue – funds specifically allocated to tourism. “People were concerned it was going to affect their Worcester County taxes, and that’s not the case,” Meehan explained. Some residents, like Wes Maddy, believe the complex could bring economic benefits to Berlin, attracting visitors who would spend money in local businesses. “Growth is inevitable,” Maddy said, noting the potential for increased revenue for restaurants and other establishments.
Community Concerns and Format of the Meeting
Despite the potential benefits, many attendees voiced strong opposition to the project. A key point of contention was the format of the information session itself. Residents felt a direct question-and-answer period would have been more productive than the initially planned presentation and breakout sessions. This frustration led to a visible demonstration of opposition, with many attendees standing or raising their hands to express their concerns.
Specific concerns centered around increased traffic on streets like Flower Street and Seahawk Road, as well as potential pedestrian safety issues. Hazel Brideell-Jean passionately stated, “Not in Berlin, on our little Flower Street. Please not on Flower Street.” Some residents also expressed the belief that Ocean City is considering the Berlin location simply because they lack a comparable 100-acre site within their own municipal limits.
Next Steps and Continued Dialogue
Mayor Meehan assured attendees that no decisions were planned at the meeting, and that it was the first of three planned public sessions to discuss the project. The goal, he said, is to gather input and address community concerns before moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is leading the sports complex project? Ocean City is directing the project, with collaboration from Berlin.
- How will the sports complex be funded? The complex will be funded through Ocean City’s Room Tax revenue.
- Will Berlin residents see an increase in taxes? No, the project will not affect Worcester County taxes.
- What are the main concerns of Berlin residents? Concerns include traffic, pedestrian safety, and the impact on the town’s character.
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