Clyopatra Winery and Vineyard Village Resort Expansion Faces Community Concerns
A groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of Clyopatra Winery and Vineyard Village Resort in Laurel, Maryland, and parts of bowie, Prince George’s County, sparked both celebration and concern among residents. The project, poised to become the largest Black-female-owned winery and vineyard on the East Coast, aims to bolster the local economy but has raised questions about openness and ancient context.
A Historic First and Economic Boost
Clyopatra Winery is notable as the first African-immigrant-owned winery in the United States. Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy highlighted the project’s potential, stating, “We will not only have a phenomenal vineyard here, wonderful wines and spirits here, but we also will have a place that so manny can call home.” Prince George’s County Government estimates the expansion will create between 50 and 100 jobs during peak and off-peak seasons.
Concerns Over Land History and Community Engagement
However, the expansion site’s history has drawn criticism from some residents. Tonya stephens, president of the Seven Crossings Homeowners Association, pointed out the land’s significance as a former settlement for formerly enslaved people and their descendants.”This is a land of where sharecroppers were,” stephens stated,adding that residents felt uninformed about the plans. “Their family and their descendants are still there. The formerly enslaved built its own colony right here and they are still here.”
Residents expressed frustration over a perceived lack of communication regarding the project. Stephens noted, “We just all kind of wondered, how did we not know this? [residents] are used to knowing about things in the county, and we just don’t like how it happened.” Concerns also extended to logistical issues during the groundbreaking event, with traffic congestion and parking spilling into the Seven Crossings neighborhood, described by Stephens as “a complete and utter nightmare.”
Local Leaders Respond
Bowie City Councilmember Roxy Ndebumadu acknowledged the need for improved communication, especially in light of changing data dissemination methods.”We’re trying to reach people where they’re at,” Ndebumadu said. “Not everyone checks their mail every day, so I acknowledge that, while there might not have been notices that were sent out, that residents might not have received them because of the now information style.” The City of Bowie aims to strengthen the area’s tax base and promote economic development, especially following the closure of Six Flags America.
Looking Ahead
Residents are now seeking access to detailed project plans,specifically regarding entrance points and traffic flow. Stephens emphasized, “I want to see the plans. I want to see where people would enter from for a winery.” Moving forward, a more inclusive and clear communication strategy will be crucial to address community concerns and ensure the Clyopatra winery expansion benefits all stakeholders.
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