Key Initiatives
The Ocean City Development Corporation (OCDC) is dedicated to revitalizing and enhancing downtown Ocean City, MD. Through strategic investments, community partnerships, and forward-thinking initiatives, we aim to preserve the town’s rich history while fostering sustainable growth. Below are our key initiatives that are shaping the future of downtown Ocean City.
Public Art & Special Events
OCDC has invested over $500,000 in public art, transforming downtown Ocean City into a more vibrant and visually appealing destination. Our Art Outside the Box program decorates utility boxes with creative designs from local artists, while murals and sculptures bring character to the area. Key installations include the White Marlin sculpture on Division Street, Seahawk at 4th Street, and Dance of the Dolphins at the Ocean City Tennis Center.
In addition to beautification, OCDC fosters a strong cultural scene through events like Sunset Park Party Nights, Classic Car Shows On Somerset Plaza, ShoreCraft Beer Fest, OCDC After Dark Networking Series and our annual Art Davis Memorial Golf Tournament. These events provide entertainment for locals and visitors alike while promoting downtown businesses and fostering community spirit.
Workforce Housing
Addressing the shortage of seasonal employee housing is a major priority for OCDC. We have facilitated numerous projects to provide safe, affordable housing for workers.
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104 Dorchester Street – A recently renovated building that now houses 55 seasonal employees.
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Monte Carlo Oceanfront – A mixed-use development that includes hotel suites and workforce housing units.
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Fat Daddy’s Mixed-Use Project – Providing a balance of business space and seasonal housing to support Ocean City's workforce needs.
Supporting Public Spaces & Infrastructure
OCDC works diligently to improve public spaces, making downtown Ocean City a more welcoming place for both residents and visitors.
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Sunset Park – Developed in partnership with the town, Sunset Park offers stunning bay views and serves as a venue for concerts, events, and community gatherings.
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Bayside Park – A recently redeveloped area offering enhanced recreational opportunities and waterfront access.
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Somerset Plaza Streetscaping – An ongoing initiative to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment with improved lighting, walkways, and landscaping to enhance the downtown experience.
Encouraging Business Development
OCDC supports the local economy by helping business owners with financial aid, improvements, and strategic guidance.
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Startup grants – Providing funding to new businesses looking to establish themselves in downtown Ocean City.
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Façade improvement grants – Helping business owners update and maintain their properties to preserve the area’s aesthetic appeal.
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Downtown development support – Encouraging responsible growth that strengthens Ocean City’s tourism and business sectors.
Preserving Downtown Character
Historic preservation is at the core of OCDC’s mission. By enforcing downtown design standards and restoring significant structures, we help maintain Ocean City’s charm and character.
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Tarry A While Guest House – A historic structure dating back to 1899, preserved and now housing seasonal employees.
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The Henry Hotel – A vital part of Ocean City’s African-American history, undergoing restoration in partnership with the Henry Hotel Foundation to preserve this significant landmark.
Landbanking & Strategic Property Acquisitions
Through landbanking, OCDC acquires and redevelops properties to better serve the community. Notable projects include:
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102 Worcester Street – Acquired in 2023, this property is being redeveloped for commercial use on the first floor and workforce housing on the second.
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Model Block Initiative – A long-term project consolidating properties between Somerset and Dorchester Streets to promote private development and workforce housing.
First Responder Facilities
OCDC has played a crucial role in ensuring that Ocean City's emergency services have the resources and facilities they need to serve the community effectively.
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Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) Headquarters – Located at Philadelphia Ave. and Talbot St., this modern facility was designed with input and financial support from OCDC, completed in 2015.
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Ocean City Police Department (OCPD) Substation – Currently under construction on Somerset Street, this facility will provide police offices, public restrooms, bicycle storage, and workforce housing upon completion in 2025.
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Tarry A. While Housing – A historic building now repurposed to house seasonal lifeguards, ensuring our beachfront remains protected throughout the summer months.
Supporting the Boardwalk
Recognizing the Boardwalk as one of Ocean City’s most valuable assets, OCDC actively supports businesses and improvement projects.
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Ocean’s Calling Festival advocacy – Ensuring Boardwalk businesses have a voice in large-scale events.
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Updated signage and display ordinances – Improving aesthetics while maintaining a cohesive visual appeal.
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Boardwalk Business Directory – Helping visitors find and support local businesses along the iconic Boardwalk.
Long-Term Planning: Bayside Boardwalk, Parking Garage & Design Initiatives
OCDC is actively working on future developments that will enhance the functionality and accessibility of downtown Ocean City.
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Bayside Boardwalk – A long-term vision to improve public waterfront access and create additional recreational opportunities.
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Downtown Parking Garage – A proposed solution to address parking challenges and support the growing needs of the community.
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Downtown Design Standards -
Streetscapes & Beautification
Enhancing the overall look and feel of downtown is a continuous effort.
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Somerset Plaza & St. Louis Avenue Improvements – Creating safer, more attractive pedestrian spaces.
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Downtown Ocean City Welcome Sign – A landmark entrance that signifies the city’s commitment to revitalization and tourism.