The Martha's Vineyard Times

Martha's Vineyard picks up in aftermath of Irene

By Nelson Sigelman
August 29, 2011

Photo by Nelson Sigelman

A boat broke free of its mooring during the storm and beached itself on the shore of the lagoon adjacent to the launch ramp. The boat appeared in perfect condition. [More Photos]

On Tuesday, South Beach reopened to swimming.

The Steamship Authority resumed regularly scheduled service Monday, at about 8 am.

The Chapaquiddick ferry began operating as of 8 am.

Atlantic Drive has reopened to traffic. South Beach is still closed for swimming, but the beach is open.

State Road between Edgartown and Oak Bluffs is open to travel. Bicyclists are asked to use caution near Farm Pond.

The state Division of Marine Fisheries reopened the Island's shellfish beds.

And, in Oak Bluffs, town highway superintendent Richard Combra Jr. said Monday morning that the town was fortunate that the only storm-related problems he had to deal with were a few trees down, a road washout, and a lot of cleanup.

"Feeling pretty lucky, we dodged another bullet," Mr. Combra said.

Surf washing over the sea wall on Sea View Avenue forced Oak Bluffs officials to close the road late Sunday morning. It remained closed until Monday morning. NSTAR crews kept watch on a tilting utility pole overnight, and began repairs early Monday.

The waves washed a lot of sand into the road, and erosion led to collapse of part of the bike path near Farm Pond. Erosion also exposed an old water main in that area. Engineers were evaluating the damage Monday morning. Water service continued uninterrupted, but repair of that water main may require short interruptions.