Proposed Lower Boat Speeds on Middle River Sparks Debate

Boaters on Middle River could face significantly slower speeds if a new speed limit is adopted by the state Department of Natural Resources.

There will be a to discuss whether to extend the 6 knots speed limit from the top into the the mouth of the river, where speeds currently top out at 35 knots. 

The Bowleys Condo Marina and the Bowleys Condo Association applied for the speed limit in the spring, citing safety concerns and damage to the marina. That move has many boaters and businesses along Middle River upset.

Brian Schneider, who owns Tradewinds Marina, said extending the lower speed limit would kill business to those along Middle River, as boaters would be frustrated with not being able to fully utilize the river.

"This is a case of one marina trying to negatively hurt the 26 other marinas along with other businesses and restaurants like , and on Middle River," Schneider said.

Schneider said extending the slower speed limit would add up to 30 minutes to the trips of boaters heading in and out of Middle River, which would lead to many boaters to reconsider whether to make the trip.

He added that it could also lead to boaters with slips at marinas in Middle River to take their boats elsewhere. This, Schneider said, would lead many marinas to go out of business.

Schneider also said the lower speed limit would negatively impact his business, as it would take longer to take potential buyers out to let them test new boats.

The current 6 knots speed limit begins at the top of Middle River out to Strawberry Point. It then goes up to 35 knots during the day and 25 at night, Schneider said.

"This would just kill life on Middle River," Schneider said. "Along with the impact on businesses, there would be no recreational life on Middle River. People couldn't Jet Ski, go tubing or just enjoy the water. If they can't do that, they'll go to restaurants in other waterfront communities, pull their boats from our slips and some may even decide to move elsewhere."

Bowleys Quarters Community Association Vice President Allen Robertson said he sees both sides of this issue. But, after thinking about it, he reluctantly agrees with the lower speed limit.

"There are a lot of people out there who don't know how to police themselves when they are out on the water," Robertson said. "That can be a safety issue for a lot of people."

Mike Grant, DNR's regulations coordinator for boating services, said he expects 200 people to attend today's meeting. He said each speaker will get two minutes with those representing large groups to get slightly longer.

Grant added that after the DNR's Boat Act Advisory Committee listens to the comments it will make recommendations to DNR Secretary John R. Griffin, who will make a final recommendation.