Closure of Jack’s Boathouse delayed by public support

Jack’s Boathouse, an iconic canoe rental location and hangout on the waterfront in Georgetown, will avoid closure, at least for the immediate future. A week ago, Paul Simkin, who owns the boathouse, was informed by the National Park Service that his lease would be terminated at the end of January. The boathouse is located on a tract of land just west of Key Bridge that is mostly owned by the Park Service. An outpouring of support from friends and patrons over Christmas however, has led Park Service director Jon Jarvis to reexamine the case, suspending termination of the lease until further investigation. The small holiday win is a source of much cheer for local river enthusiasts who enjoy grilling and getting together at Jack’s.