The University of Maryland planned to construct a new, 70-foot wide by 300-foot long finger pier to enhance their oyster cultivation and research program. Aquaculture tanks located on the pier will be used to nurture oyster spat.  Once the spat reaches a viable size, they will be transplanted into the Chesapeake Bay in an ongoing effort to restock the oyster population.  The pier is a concrete and pile-supported structure designed to berth two research vessels.  Laboratory and mechanical equipment buildings are located on the pier along with an extensive bay water circulation system.