OCEAN CITY – In addition to seeking air rights over a portion of Washington Lane, the connections of a proposed resort hotel say they will also request a setback variance, giving them more amenity space to bring the Margaritaville brand to Ocean City.
On Monday, the Mayor and Council agreed to advance a request to convey air rights over a portion of Washington Lane to a first reading. In a public hearing this week, Hugh Cropper, attorney for MHROC Property Owners LLC, said his client is seeking a conveyance to allow a hotel to be developed in the oceanfront block between 13th and 14th streets where the Phillips Beach Plaza once operated.
“I would like to say that my clients are very desirous of building a Margaritaville resort on this property, but I can’t tell you that what is here is going to qualify as a Margaritaville resort because it doesn’t have as much restaurant space, convention space and other amenities,” he told the council. “That is our ultimate desire, but we cannot tie this to Margaritaville.”
On Monday, the Mayor and Council held a public hearing to consider the abandonment and conveyance of air rights above a portion of Washington Lane, which bisects the proposed development project between 13th and 14th streets. By granting the conveyance of air rights, officials say the property owner will be able to construct a single building connecting properties to the east and west of the 16-foot public alley.
“Tonight, they have proposed a height-by-right hotel with 230 units …,” Cropper said. “We’re asking for approval for an oceanfront resort hotel. I’m sure it will be flagged or branded, but I can’t guarantee that this will be a Margaritaville.”