While the proposed Chappy bike path discussion seems to be an extension of the affordable housing and DCPC brouhahas, with a few players changing sides, the overall issue is about the number of people residing, visiting and using the amenities that Chappaquiddick has to offer. The reality is that the people are here and we can't go back to the good old days when safety was not as big a concern. That doesn't mean we have to roll out the red carpet either. What we should do is see the island as a whole to plan and upgrade the infrastructure that is in constant need of repair. The roads need repaving.( How much black goop can you squirt in the cracks?) The power is forever flickering. Phone conversations crackle in dampness. Cable is non existent(who cares?).
I know this is what makes Chappy quaint but all these will need to be addressed soon. Why not bundle all the issues together to share in the expense. Dig a trench on one side and upgrade and bury all the utility lines and get rid of all the poles so they won't blow over every winter. Imagine coming down the hill by Caleb's Pond without power lines extending to the harbor. Widen the road six feet. That's three feet per side. This will allow more space for bikes and cars and you won't have to hold your breath passing each other.
I understand that coordinating public and private entities is a nightmare. It can be done. I understand that widening the roads will want to make people go faster. But the reality is that cars and trucks(lots of trucks) are bigger and people (lots of people) are here to stay. We need to stop the pissing contests and work for the greater good of Chappaquiddick in the future.

Jack Livingston