Dear Editor:

I recently went to the Boothbay Register online and viewed the 15-minute slide presentation regarding the proposal for traffic redirection around the Boothbay Common. As a year-round resident and business owner in Boothbay Harbor for the past 14 years, I view potential changes like this as important on both a personal and business level. Having been the victim of a traffic accident in this location several years ago when my sister and I were rear-ended by another vehicle as we rounded the Common, I feel a particular interest in the outcome. I approached the issue with an open mind.

The slide presentation provided a great historical perspective on area traffic pattern analyses and proposals over the past couple of decades. That context, along with a detailed safety analysis, was most helpful in understanding the recommendations. It also provided a comparison of several alternatives, each measured in terms of present and future traffic safety and volume, pedestrian accessibility, and ease of use. The expert analyses and recommendations by the independent DOT affiliate seemed well founded, offering a creative alternative to the current flow that will benefit the community and prepare us for future traffic growth as projected with the expansion of the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

The other consideration of importance to me is an aesthetic one. There has been talk of late regarding a visual “gateway” to the town, something to welcome visitors with an indication that their 10-mile diversion down the peninsula has been worth it. I think the proposed roundabout and the associated landscaping changes will provide just that, along with a safer, more pedestrian-friendly access to all of the Common-based events — farmers market, craft fairs, Rotary auction, and more — that we love and treasure as a community.

I encourage all my neighbors to go online and view this presentation. I, for one, think it is a good idea.

Susan L. Hodder

Boothbay Harbor