On Thursday, October 9, the Tybee Island City Council took a significant step by approving a resolution that allows the Tybee Island Maritime Academy (TIMA) to move to Memorial Park. This decision marks the beginning of a new chapter for the academy, as its current lease is due to expire in 2028. With time pressing, Executive Director Ken Urich emphasized the urgency of the relocation process.

Following the council’s approval, TIMA is now poised to kick off its fundraising efforts. Concurrently, the city will embark on developing a comprehensive master plan to facilitate the academy’s move. In preparation for this transition, academy leaders are busy refining the required square footage, addressing the school’s needs, and engaging in discussions about potential collaborations and community support.

Urich highlighted the importance of aligning the academy’s plans with the city’s vision, ensuring that the relocation benefits not only TIMA but also the broader Tybee Island community. “The most important aspect for us is to continue our organization in a space that holds significance for us and fosters a connection between the students and the community they cherish,” Urich stated.

Urich also said the school is using the city’s guide in the process, so they not only do what is best for Maritime, but also Tybee Island as a whole.

“That is probably the biggest thing for us, just ensuring that we can continue our organization, do it in a place that, you know, has a lot of value for us and also connects kids to a community that they care about,” said Urich. 

Once Maritime has an official financial plan, the city will re-evaluate the relocation to Memorial Park.