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The Cambridge Waterfront Development, Inc. (CWDI) Board of Directors has named Matt Leonard to the position of Executive Director of their organization, which is charged with planning, promoting, and facilitating the redevelopment of the Cambridge Waterfront site on the Choptank River.

Leonard, a development professional, has significant experience in economic development, property development, community development, and organizational development. Leonard moved to Cambridge with his wife two years ago “for the very reasons that are embodied in the CWDI mission,” which he describes as reshaping the waterfront site to reflect “the inviting, accessible, active, and enjoyable” place they found in Cambridge — adding “I’m pleased and excited to have found some small way to help the community we have chosen as our forever home.”

At the same time, Cambridge is saying good-bye to Sandra Tripp-Jones , who served as the Executive Director of CWDI during its formation and critical first years of activity. CWDI Board President, Richard Zeidman, said that the leadership of CWDI “can’t thank Sandra enough for her efforts over the last three years.” Trip-Jones stepped into the position shortly after leaving her service to the City of Cambridge as City Manager. “It’s been my pleasure,” says Tripp-Jones of her time with CWDI. “This is the fourth time I’ve retired,” she says with a laugh. “Maybe this time it will stick.” She plans to spend more time with her husband and family.

CWDI plans to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) in the next 60 days to identify developers whose development ideas match CWDI’s vision for the site. That vision has been informed by decades of input from the public and many other stakeholder groups. CWDI will share the current Master Site Plan next month for a 30-day public input period. A separate announcement will be made with details of when and how this will occur.

At the January 6, 2022, meeting of the CWDI Board of Directors, Secretary Holt of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development welcomed Executive Director Leonard and thanked outgoing director, Tripp-Jones. Secretary Holt said “The revitalization of the Cambridge waterfront serves as a prime example of progress through local, state, and private partnerships. I want to personally thank Sandra Tripp-Jones for so effectively supporting the CWDI Board in its effort to develop this key property. The State of Maryland has made a significant commitment to CWDI, the City of Cambridge, and Dorchester County to showcase this beautiful waterfront site.”