Jun 17, 2009 5:49 pm US/Eastern
Sail Boston Saved, Minus Parade Of Sails
Struggle Over Security Costs Settled
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
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In 2000, an estimated 8 million people came to the city during the six-day event.
WBZ
Gov. Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Thomas Menino have thrown this summer's Tall Ships visit a million dollar life preserver.
They personally brokered a deal that puts wind back in the sales of local businesses.
"We're excited about it. It's the best thing that could happen to any of the boats down here in the harbor for the summer," said Bob Lawler, General Manager of Entertainment Cruises and a board member of Sail Boston, organizer of the upcoming tall ships visit.
The visit had been jeopardized after Mayor Menino said there was not enough public money to cover security costs. Then came word Wednesday of the million dollar deal he made with the governor.
"In the end, the state will make money back because sales tax, the meals tax, all those things go to the state. But I'm the one who pays for all the services," said Menino.
In 2000, the city said it was stuck with a $1.6 million bill after that Tall Ships visit.
The Parade of Sails back then attracted an estimated 8 million people.
There won't be a parade or fireworks this time. But the public will be able to go aboard some of the 49 visiting ships while they're docked, free of charge.
We asked people on Castle Island what they think about spending a million dollars of state money without getting a parade.
"I think it's a good idea," one person said.
It's going to bring business to Boston, and it's a beautiful thing to look at," said Jean Krzyzanowski of Mission Hill.
Angela Mathis of Braintree wondered, "Why does it have to cost so much money?"
Bobby Gillis of Braintree answered, "You've got to spend money to make money."
"It's going to mean tens of thousands of dollars to Entertainment Cruises, which is the Odyssey and the Spirit of Boston, as well as all of the other boat operators," said Lawler.
The million dollars will come from a Massachusetts Convention Center Authority fund over which the Governor has discretion. The city will receive $750,000. The rest will go to State police and pay for other state expenses. Sail Boston has agreed to kick in another $250,000 for State police.
The Tall Ships will be here July 8 through July 13. The public will be able to board some of the ships from 5-10 p.m. on July 9-10 (Thursday and Friday), and 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 11-12 (Saturday-Sunday).
The public will be able to view ships at a number of piers, including Battery Wharf, Long Wharf, Rowes Wharf, Moakley Courthouse, Charlestown Navy Yard, World Trade Center and Fish Pier.
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