Edgartown Board of Selectmen
Edgartown Town Hall
70 Main Street
Edgartown, MA 02539

Dear Selectmen,

I am writing to express my concern at your apparent support for the CPC's Northeastern students bike path presentation on Feb. 26. A number of reasons make it disturbing. The most compelling one is that the need for a multi-use path has not been well researched nor proven. The safety issue has not been carefully examined and discussed. Massachusetts' approach to building multi-use paths has shifted away from following roadways. Experience (though counterintuitive) has shown paths parallel to roads cause more accidents. Integrating traffic, bike lanes, and building paths away from roads are considered more enlightened and effective ways to promote safety.

I won't repeat the opposing arguments you have already heard, but I would like to remind you of the majority of Chappy residents who oppose a multi-use path and feel strongly enough to write letters. I question the Town's fiscal responsibility and priorities. It is hard to understand in this recessionary time why the 4.5 million library grant was lost and why an expensive public works project that is of limited seasonal use, reduces safety, and degrades the environment should seem to receive support from the selectmen.

Thank you for considering my comments.

Sincerely,

Hatsy Potter