A fire in Portland's historic Old Port waterfront caused damage to buildings and boats, including sinking at least one vessel, with firefighters using a fire boat due to frozen hydrants; no fatalities reported, and investigations are ongoing.
A three-alarm fire on Portland's waterfront destroyed Maritime Antiques, damaged Sea Bags Factory Store, and caused minor boat damage, with firefighters battling icy conditions and flooding, and the cause remains under investigation.
A shooting from a boat at a North Carolina waterfront bar resulted in three deaths and multiple injuries, with the shooter fleeing the scene; authorities are investigating and have detained a person of interest, with no confirmed motive yet.
A shooting on a boat in Southport, North Carolina, resulted in 3 deaths and 8 injuries when someone opened fire at a waterfront bar, prompting a city-wide alert and ongoing investigation.
A spate of recent killings along the Portland waterfront has left locals feeling unsafe and city leaders determined to address the issue. The recent homicides, including a stabbing and a strangulation, have raised concerns about public safety in popular downtown areas. City officials are emphasizing the need to address the root causes of gun violence and are committed to supporting police efforts to keep public spaces safe. Despite the recent violence, some residents remain determined to continue enjoying the city's parks and pathways while acknowledging the need for increased vigilance.
Work has officially begun on the Park at Penn's Landing, a nearly 12-acre park being built over I-95 in Philadelphia. The park aims to reconnect the city to the waterfront, stitching back together neighborhoods that were separated when the highway was constructed. The project, estimated to cost $360 million, is expected to generate $1.6 billion in economic activity over the next 25 years. The park will feature gardens, a cafe, pavilion, amphitheater, and serve as a central meeting place and performance venue. A separate South Street bridge will allow pedestrians and cyclists to access the Delaware River Trail.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is auctioning off 95 parcels of land across the state, offering individuals the opportunity to own their own piece of Michigan's natural beauty. The auction includes properties in 12 counties, with minimum bids starting as low as $300. The DNR is selling surplus land to ensure that it is being used for the benefit of residents, visitors, and natural resources. Proceeds from the auction will support future outdoor recreational activities and the conservation of Michigan's natural and cultural resources. Notable properties include waterfront lots and large acreage properties. Bidders must register before the auction date, and absentee bids can be made in advance.
After seven years of planning and construction, Clearwater, Florida, has opened the newly renovated Coachman Park and downtown waterfront. The $84 million project transformed the area into a 19-acre public space with amenities such as an amphitheater, green spaces, playgrounds, and paths with views of Clearwater Harbor. The opening day featured a sold-out concert by Cheap Trick, and the park aims to become a signature urban feature in the region. While the waterfront has been awakened, the city is still working on attracting businesses and visitors to the surrounding downtown area.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have revealed renderings of their proposed new stadium, which features a futuristic design reminiscent of The Bean in Chicago. However, concerns have been raised about the practicality of the stadium's chrome exterior, which could become covered in seagull poop and fingerprints. Despite this, the design has been praised for its unique and innovative approach to stadium architecture.
The Cleveland Metroparks Summer Concert Series will feature over a dozen bands performing on Thursday nights at seven waterfront locations from May 18 to Aug. 31. The series will include happy hour presented by Leinenkugel’s, food trucks, and food from Cleveland Metroparks concessions. The schedule and lineup are available at clevelandmetroparks.com/concerts.