The Havre de Grace Maritime Museum is planning a 4,800-square-foot expansion in the form of a large outdoor pavilion and display space overlooking the top of the Chesapeake Bay.
The pavilion will have a green roof ? referring not only to its color, but to the fact that it will be a giant platform for grasses and plants that will act as natural insulation, said museum board member Allan “Bud” Gillis.
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The expansion could create additional display space for several exhibits currently exposed to the elements, such as the shad shack portable shelter once used by fishermen, along with several display boats.
While partially protected in the shadow of the museum, the exhibits remain exposed and have even become targets for vandalism, Gillis said.
Other boats that are currently kept in storage beneath the museum could be moved in the shelter of the pavilion as well, according to Gillis.
Museum events, such as the annual boat-building school, would take place there instead of the usual location, under tents on the museum grounds.
Once completed, the pavilion could also become a source of income for the museum if it is rented out for weddings and special events drawn to the scenic location, Gillis said.
“There?s always weddings and receptions going on, and there?s the [Concord Point] lighthouse right there on the corner,” he said.
The Maritime Museum is in the midst of a substantial fundraising program not only for the pavilion but also for other improvements to the facility, which could cost upwards of $1.7 million, according to Gillis.
While the city usually assists with the museum?s operating costs through a yearly grant, City Manager Jim Newby said he was uncertain of what role it would play in the expansion campaign.
The pavilion expansion is scheduled to be presented to the city planning commission June 11 at City Hall.
