Monday, May 23, 2011

Cropper Concrete Factory

The George B. Cropper Concrete plant has been clearly visible to anyone entering the southern end of Ocean City for decades. This concrete company is responsible for creating much of the concrete that aided in the development of this coastal town. I guess you could say that Cropper’s helped create Ocean City. Unfortunately, this concrete factory hasn’t been used in over 10 years.
On April 29th, 2011, the Cropper Concrete plant was auctioned off for 4.1 million dollars. A local family who is known for many large developments in our area purchased the multi-zoned, mixed-use property. They currently do not have any plants for the area that spans over 2 blocks directly off of Route 50.
The factory sits directly on the bay next to the pretty blue drawbridge built out of concrete supplied by this old plant. The uniqueness of this highly visible site is easily identifiable. The 2 giant yellow towers shine above the residential houses that surround the property. There are barbed wire fences surrounding the lot and the buildings are boarded up and have been for years. Poison ivy and large thorn bushes also encourage people to stay away.
It’s sad to think that such a historic part of Ocean City has disintegrated. Technically, the concrete supplies generated by this company will survive in Ocean City for decades to come. I can’t wait to see what they build on this massive property in the future. This Eastern Shore landmark should be remembered for creating the foundations of our town.
Are there any town-related businesses in your area that have recently closed or been auctioned off? I’m sure this can’t only be happening in our community, but in others all over the country, also.

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