letter to the editor

The Eastside Waterfront Park

Mon, 08/05/2019 - 4:45pm

Dear Editor:

I was born and raised in Boothbay Harbor, and it will always be my home town. Because I love this place so much, I am writing to share my excitement about the new Eastside Waterfront Park!

I recently attended a reception for supporters of Boothbay Harbor Waterfront Preservation (BHWP). BHWP has an option to purchase the Captain Fish Motel property by Nov. 1. This waterfront property is nearly ¾ acre and has a spectacular view of both the inner and outer harbor. It is within walking distance of the town and footbridge.

BHWP has raised $2,100,000 so far to purchase the property, plus an additional $500,000 for the maintenance endowment. $900,000 more must be raised by Nov. 1.

This park will be a jewel on the east side of the harbor. It will provide permanent public access to the harbor for both residents and visitors; support for the working waterfront; an apprentice fishing program; tidal steps; short-term docking; a pavilion for concerts and public events; space for farmers’ markets, weddings, etc.; a splash area for young children; a restaurant and a convenience store.

I completely understand the concern about removing this commercial property from the property tax base, but the #1 attraction here is our beautiful harbor. This destination park on the harbor will attract more visitors and will make all businesses more prosperous (and will likely lead to new businesses on the east side). This gorgeous park will be a “must see” attraction for visitors and a continuing joy to all who live here.

The value to the community is immeasurable! I ask you to do two things:

–Walk down to the waterfront at the Captain Fish Motel; just look at that gorgeous view! Imagine making that experience public forever!

–Please consider donating to make this park a reality! Donations of all sizes to BHWP are gratefully accepted.

We must make this park happen! It would be a tragedy to miss this opportunity to preserve this open space and public access to the harbor, and this park would help bring the community together to celebrate an amazing legacy for future generations. Let’s do it!

Sandra Perkins

Seattle, Washington