Wychmere Redevelopment
Our Mission
Wychmere is a premier coastal resort dedicated to delivering exceptional hospitality in a setting of natural beauty and timeless charm. With more than half a century of hospitality excellence, Wychmere has evolved into a sought-after Cape Cod destination where contemporary hospitality meets the relaxed elegance of coastal living. We are committed to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests, cultivating an environment where our dedicated team thrives, and contributing meaningfully to our local community and economy.
Rooted in our rich coastal heritage, we take pride in being thoughtful stewards of the land and sea—honoring Cape Cod’s unique identity by celebrating its natural beauty, maritime culture, and deep sense of place. As a destination for life’s most meaningful celebrations, especially weddings, Wychmere is where lasting connections are formed—where guests become part of a close-knit coastal community and return year after year to relive cherished memories.
Community is at the heart of everything we do. From collaborating with local artisans and businesses to supporting charitable initiatives and time-honored Cape traditions, we are deeply invested in strengthening our ties to the region and enriching the lives of those around us. With a profound respect for people, place, and purpose, Wychmere is more than a resort—it’s a gathering place where traditions are honored, memories are made, and all who come feel a deep and lasting sense of belonging.
Redevelopment: A Renewed Purpose
The proposed work will take place within previously developed areas, replacing the existing Snow Inn and Channel House with a new flood compliant hotel that includes new guest rooms, meeting rooms, spa, restaurant, Plaza Deck and other hotel amenities.
Upgrades to Site Infrastructure: The existing Channel House will be removed to make room for new wastewater treatment facility designed to meet current and proposed development needs, replacing the existing WWTF currently located in the basement of the existing hotel.
Stormwater Drainage Improvements: Stormwater system designed to control runoff on site per MA Stormwater Management Standards and Harwich Stormwater Regulations.
Parking: Parking Deck will be constructed over existing at-grade parking areas
• At-Grade Below Deck Parking
• Improved site circulation
• Total Parking for 195 vehicles
Landscape/Hardscape Improvements: New landscape/hardscape will incorporate native vegetation consistent with RPP Design Guidelines
Economic Benefits
• Re-development would boost Harwich’s economy by expanding Wychmere’s role as a key driver of seasonal and year-round tourism.
• Increases seasonal (70–80) and year-round (20–25) employment with competitive pay and employee housing.
• Generates substantial increases in local lodging, meals, and property tax revenues.
• Supports local accommodations, stores, restaurants, attractions and vendors through increased demand.
• Was consistent with Harwich’s Local Comprehensive Plan and long-term sustainability goals.
Environmental Benefits
Stormwater & Flood Protection
• Re-development of the site proposed new stormwater systems on-site and off-site to manage runoff, improve water quality, and promote groundwater recharge.
• Addresses untreated runoff from neighboring properties and roads, protecting Merkel Beach, Snow Inn Road and town-owned conservation land.
• Incorporates Low Impact Development (LID) techniques and green infrastructure.
• Designed per MA Stormwater Management Standards & Harwich Stormwater Regulations.
From our neighbors
Community Sentiment
Respectful Manner
“ownership and management has been dedicated to listening to neighbors in a respectful manner, and continue to be committed to helping mitigate any concerns relative to traffic and safety on Snow Inn Road. I among others I’m sure would be willing to take an active role in helping ensure the best safety for all of us on Snow Inn Road in collaboration with Wychmere Beach Club.”
No Disruption to the Neighborhood
“every project Wychmere has undertaken has caused no disruption to the neighborhood”
“track record/history of responsible development”
Align with the Towns Character
“enhance the character of Harwich Port…complement Harwich Port’s coastal charm while offering upscale amenities that align with the town’s character”
Concern About Well-Being of Their Neighbors
“truly appreciate Wychmere’s attention to detail and concern about the experience and well-being of their neighbors”
Wychmere Did Something About It
“The fact that first drew my interest to this matter was the purchase by the developer of the neglected and rundown Coachman Motel on Route 28. While I heard many complaints that no one was providing housing for seasonal workers, Wychmere did something about it. That action shows that the developer plans for the future and makes investments that benefit not only its development but the community at large”
Benefits to the Community
“given the town’s unique charm, oceanfront appeal, and growing demand for upscale accommodations, a luxury boutique hotel would provide significant economic, social, and cultural benefits to the community”
Position the Town for Long Term Growth
“economic boost [retain high-value tourism, position the town as a premier location for events], job creation, and enhanced visitor experience would position the town for long-term growth while maintaining its unique character”
Managed Deliveries, Parking, Traffic
“as someone almost next door…I was struck by how well they managed deliveries, parking, traffic and other possible inconveniences. I was never negatively impacted by the work that was being done”
Sensitivity & Flexibility
“The sensitivity and flexibility that the developer has for our community is further evidenced by its plans for traffic on Snow Inn Road….Wychmere purchased an off-site warehouse to house staff and to receive deliveries; thereby decreasing those who will use [Snow Inn Road]. Large trucks and busses will no longer be permitted on [Snow Inn Road]….The significance for safety of the transfer of loads to smaller vehicles should not be underestimated”
Alleviate Traffic Congestion
“One of the major advantages of the expansion is the increase in room availability, which will help alleviate traffic congestion during peak periods, especially around events. With more guests being able to settle into the hotel prior to the start of an event, I anticipate a smoother flow of traffic,as fewer visitors will be arriving from off-site accommodations at the last minute.”
Less Cars & People than Thompson’s Clam Bar
“there are less cars and people [than when Thompson’s Clam Bar restaurant was open]. Thompsons would serve up to 2,000 people in a single day. No neighbors complained back then”
Decrease Large Vehicles on Snow Inn Road
“addition of the new transfer station will significantly decrease the number of large vehicles driving on Snow Inn Road, and their commitment to resolving the runoff water issue coming from Davis Lane, shows me that Wychmere cares about the community.”
Traffic Benefits
Traffic & Access Management
• 80%+ of deliveries removed from Snow Inn Road; rerouted to 741 Route 28.
• Ban on 54-passenger motor coaches accessing the site; traffic plans required for events.
• Smaller refrigerated van to consolidate and schedule deliveries during off-peak hours.
• Ongoing coordination with the Town to improve Route 28/Snow Inn Road intersection.
• Complete Valet Operation for all arriving guests.
Traffic Calming
• Supports installation of seasonal speed bumps and reduced speed limits on Snow Inn Road.
• Will work with Davis Lane residents on limiting road access & managing vehicle flow. Previously offered to install a gate on the private road.
Zoning & Design Compliance
• The re-development met local zoning for height, building coverage, and most setbacks; existing nonconforming front setback improved.
• Massing and layout designed to minimize visibility and impact, shielded by existing perimeter buildings.
• The proposed building conformed to Harwich Historic District and Historical Commission design recommendations.
Wastewater Improvements
• The re-development proposed the replacement of the existing 40-year-old treatment plant with a state-of-the-art, flood-resistant system relocated outside the floodplain.
• Enhanced treatment will result in a net nitrogen decrease of 69 kg/year, improving Wychmere Harbor water quality.
• Design flow will be handled by upgraded equipment using the existing soil absorption system.
• Project met & exceeded the Regional Policy Plan (RPP) water quality objectives (WR1 & WR3).
Floodplain Resiliency
• Proposed projected contemplated no development in V zones; new buildings & systems located outside floodplain.
• All guest rooms elevated per Coastal Resiliency Technical Bulletin to minimize flood risk.
THEN & NOW – LEARN MORE
Wychmere’s History
Remembering Thompson’s Clam Bar – CapeCod.com
College students from Venezuela to Turkey and many of Cape Cod’s towns flocked to work at Thompson’s Clam Bar, working hard to serve up to 2,000 dinners a night.
Lost Restaurant Series – Thompson’s Clam Bar
The 552-seat seasonal restaurant was enormous, sometimes serving over 2,000 people in a single day. Opened from mid-June to mid-September, at one point it was the largest seasonal restaurant east of the Mississippi River.
Thompson’s Clam Bar – You Tube
Cape Cast – Watch the video with Original Footage from Thompson’s Clam Bar busy summer serving up to 2,000 dinners each day.
Harwich Oracle – Thompson’s Clam Bar
Thompson’s Clam Bar operated from 1950 until somewhere around 1990.
The Cape Cod Chronicle – Thompson’s Clam Bar
The traffic lined up all the way to Route 28. The kitchen cranked out 2,000 meals on peak summer days. The scene was pure chaos.
Cape Cod Times – A Tribute to Thompson’s Clam Bar
Cars would back up along Snow Inn Road all the way to Route 28.
A Wave of Impact
Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions or comments