December 8, 2008

Community Preservation Committee

Dear Committee Members:

I would like to express my opposition to a Bike Path on
Chappaquiddick and we urge you NOT to approve the funds either for an
engineering study or for a pilot path on the Gardiner Property.
As bikers for over 40 years, including our three children, from the
ages of six onwards,
we have never experienced any close calls or been involved in any
accidents caused by
collisions with motor vehicles.
These are some of the reasons why a bike path is not needed or
desireable for Chappaquiddick.
Ø In these times of economic crisis, it is important that public
funds be spent carefully. A bike path is a luxury item. For example,
we would be in favor of CPA funds being spent to cover the costs of
building a new or reconstructing the old OnTime ferry boat. This
seems of more critical concern, given the frequent breakdowns due to
the raging current from the ever-widening breach.

Ø Also because of the forecasts for a deep recession of unknown
duration, we question how much vehicular traffic there will be using
the Chappy roads.

Ø In fact, because there will be more bikes on the road, this
critical mass of bikers will act as protection, like a convoy,
causing cars to slow down.

Ø Both my husband and I have urged you withhold any decision on
this matter until the Chappy community has had a chance to discuss
fully the proposal being considered.

Ø We recognize that in order to understand the options, the Bike
Path Committee will need to present their proposal with detailed
visual and written information.

But is a $26,000 Engineering Survey needed? How about a simple map
and a model backed up with cost estimates? The model could have a
sample of the surface material being suggested. To approve a full-
blown engineering study is a first step toward approving the Bike
Path. Only if, in July,2009, after discussion with a majority of
homeowners deciding in favor of a bike path, would there be a need
for an engineering study.

Ø What are the statistics for accidents on Chappy? No one I know
can recall an accident involving a motor vehicle and a bicycle.

Ø The best prevention to any accidents occurring is not a bike
path. It is the designation by the Town of Edgartown of a bike
coordinator or patrol person who is stationed on Chappy during the
only two months where sharing the road might cause a problem. This
person could possibly ride a bike. He/she could be in charge of
educating both bikers and motorists about the rules of the road and
the speed limits. This is one suggestion for addressing any safety
issues. I am sure many more will surface at the July meeting.

Please do not act on this proposal until that debate has occurred on
Chappaquiddick. We are a Separate Island.

Joan Adibi