Bill Lowe Pier dedicated at Lewes ferry terminal

Delaware River and Bay Authority officials recently unveiled a bronze plaque to formally dedicate the Lewes ferry terminal public pier to honor the service and contributions of former DRBA Commissioner William E. Lowe III to the bistate agency.

In September 2019, the DRBA Commission unanimously approved Resolution 19-38 to rename the pier.

“On behalf of the commissioners and staff, we’d like publicly recognize and thank Bill for his 16 years of service as a commissioner,” said Samuel E. Lathem, DRBA chairman. “Bill was a dedicated public servant who always focused on ways to reach a consensus for the good of the authority, its customers and stakeholders. I was fortunate to serve with him for his entire tenure at the authority.”

“I’d like to thank everyone at the DRBA for their kindness in making this dedication,” Lowe said. “It is especially gratifying for it to be here on the pier overlooking the Lewes terminal and ferry operations. It is an honor for which I am profoundly grateful."

“When I started at the DRBA nearly four years ago, Bill was one of the first people to welcome me aboard, and he was a constant resource for me as I acclimated to my new role,” said Thomas J. Cook, executive director. “As a veteran Delaware River pilot, Commissioner Lowe was a passionate supporter of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry and provided much-needed insight, expertise and perspective on this important crossing operation.”

Appointed by Gov. Ruth Ann Minner to the DRBA Commission in 2003, Lowe served with distinction, enthusiasm and dedication for more than 16 years, including six years as either chairman or vice chairman of the governing board.

During his time as a commissioner, Lowe was a strong, dedicated advocate for rebranding the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminals as community gathering places which offer outstanding waterfront venues for concerts, festivals and other events. As a result of his leadership and support, the inaugural Maritime Day Celebration that pays tribute to the region’s maritime history was held at the Lewes ferry terminal May 19, 2012.

Lowe also encouraged public use of this pier, including visits from Delaware and New Jersey’s tall ships, the Kalmar Nyckel and AJ Meerwald, respectively. The Freedom Boat Club of Delaware also used it as one of its locations in Delaware for pleasure boating.