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Following the release of the Feasibility Study, the HAP Team (now ESHI) continued in its efforts to build and develop the heritage area. Events were planned for the spring of 1999 to encourage public support for the project, a newsletter is being printed and distributed, and the next phase of the project is under way
Steps following the Feasibility Study include the following:
- Conducting additional meetings with the HAP Team (now ESHI) to guide future steps of the project;
- Analyzing economic and tourism data for the region;
- Producing the application for MHAA recognition; and
- Writing an application for a grant from MHAA to undertake heritage area management planning.
As the project proceeds, the Eastern Shore Heritage Area could gain recognition by spring 2001, at which time ESHI can
distribute a Request for Proposals for a consultant to provide support for management planning. The consultant could therefore be selected in the fall. Management planning will take a year or longer to
complete, depending on the specific requirements of the region and MHAA.
The management planning process will involve the creation and initiation of interpretive programs, development of
linkages, and targeting of investment zones and sites for capital improvement. The management plan grant and local matches could be used to initiate programs and establish an office for the heritage area.
Potentially, the management plan may be finished and adopted by the four counties by the end of the year 2001 or the
beginning of 2002. Adoption of the plan, by amendment to local planning documents, is required by MHAA prior to submission of the plan for its approval; approval constitutes certification of the area as
a Maryland Certified Heritage Area. Upon gaining certification the council will begin to do the following:
- Implement projects to interpret regional heritage;
- Improve access to historic sites;
- Improve visitor services such as accommodations, restaurants, and visitor centers;
- Spur investment in targeted areas with (state) tax credits, loans, and grants; and
- Commence related capital improvements.
- Once certification is achieved, the heritage area gains access to substantial amounts of state financial
support. These resources will become available through the issuance of state bonds. The limit on financial support is the debt ceiling for the state and the amount of funding available locally to
match the stateâs funding.
The efforts of the Heritage Partnerships for Marylandâs Eastern Shore, ESHI, and consultant should result in a
successful heritage area that will realize the vision for the area:
- Enhance and interpret the way of life on the Upper Eastern Shore;
- Protect the small-town, historic character of communities in the region;
- Improve access to recreational and natural areas;
- Improve local economies;
- Craft potential experiences for visitors and residents and enable them to enjoy the rich history of this area; and
- Maintain the quality of life for communities on the Upper Eastern Shore.
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