Hello Terry, My main reason for my "YES" vote for a bike path on Chappy was based on the assumption that it would make the island safer. However, I have been thinking about the email answer to the question of how many bike-car accidents have occurred on Chappy: "According to the computerized records of the Edgartown police, from 1988-2005, there were 8 serious bicycle accidents on Chappy that were reported to police. None of these involved a collision with a vehicle, although a role of vehicles in the accidents, such forcing off the road, is not excluded. During this time there were 35 motor vehicle accidents on Chappy, 6 involving injuries. Any role of bicycles or pedestrians in these accidents is similarly unknown." 
In thinking about the effect of a bike path on accident rates, I realize that the accident rate would likely increase due to increased number of bikers, including those that race. Also, I have received a thoughtful email from Timothy Leland concerning the probable consequences of a paved bike path on Chappy. 
After reading it, and the email revealing the infrequency of bike accidents on Chappy and lack of evidence that a bike path would reduce them further, I have decided to change my vote to a "NO" for the bike path. 
The island has always been open to all comers. Those who came more than once came because of the remoteness and quiet. Timothy's email captures this concept: "A great number ... come out now, driving or pedaling slowly and safely on the narrow paved road that leads out to Wasque. The motorists drive even more slowly on the short and bumpy stretch of dirt road at the far end. For the bicyclists, who also come in great numbers, the dirt road is even more of a strain. Many of them get off their bikes when they reach the sandy part and push them the rest of the way. Both the motorists and the bicyclists undoubtedly enjoy their Chappaquiddick visits immensely. But when they get back to Edgartown at the end of the day, you can almost hear them saying to each other: "Hey, that was a lot of fun, but I don't think I want to do it again this week. Let's just stay on the Vineyard and shop." Chappaquiddick residents who casually support this proposal should think ahead to the day when a smooth asphalt bike path crosses the island ...It will be a splendid tourist attraction. Irresistible. Chappaquidick will become a favorite destination ... not just once a summer..." 
I therefore am changing my vote to NO for a Chappy bike path. 
Thanks, 
Karin Murray