Public comment period open for Assateague South Ocean Beach Parking/OSV Entrance Restructuring Plan

BERLIN, Md. – Assateague Island National Seashore officials have announced a public comment period for the Environmental Assessment Phase of the Assateague Island National Seashore South Ocean Beach Parking/OSV Entrance Restructuring Plan.

We’re told the project is being considered to improve the safety of the South Ocean Beach area by ending conflicts between parking lot users, walkers, bicyclists, Life of the Dunes hikers, and OSV users. Additionally, moving facilities will make the South Ocean Beach recreation area more resilient to natural coastal processes and future storm events, improve safety, and enhance the visitor experience and park resources. The project will also significantly decrease yearly maintenance costs for the parking lot and lessen roadside parking in the South Ocean Beach area.

Officials say the preferred alternative for the plan includes re-routing the Oversand Vehicle Area entrance road to the west side of the South Ocean Beach parking lot, paving and slightly enlarging the lot, moving the restrooms and showers to the west, moving the end of the road rotary to the north, and creating a loop at the end of the bike path.

Those interested in voicing their opinion can do so online or by mail to Superintendent, Assateague Island National Seashore, 7206 National Seashore Lane Berlin MD 21811.

There will also be a public comment meeting at the Assateague Island Environmental Education Center on Tuesday, July 11th, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The public comment period will be open until Tuesday, August 1st.