The decision was met with opponents who claimed that it would disrupt the tradition of watching the sunset at Mallory Square.

[5] The proposal, backed by the Key West Chamber of Commerce, was intended to accommodate larger cruise ships and would have required dredging 17 acres of sea bottom, which includes endangered corals, in the protected Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

The amendments, sponsored by the Key West Committee for Safer, Cleaner Ships, passed with 61% to 81% approval.

[9] Meanwhile, Pier B is planned to undergo an expansion renovation to service bigger ships, which would first have to be approved by the state.

[16] A United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) investigation issued a Finding of No Significant Impact.

[18] The cruise ship industry delivers people to the city, where they contribute to the economy by spending at local businesses.