The Martha's Vineyard Times

Sea View Avenue washout damages path, water main

August 31, 2011

Photo by Steve Myrick

Erosion exposed a water main and collapsed the bike path along Sea View Avenue. [More Photos]

Oak Bluffs highway superintendent Richard Combra Jr. said Monday morning the town was fortunate that Hurricane Irene caused little damage. The only storm-related problems he had to deal with were a few trees down, a road washout, and a lot of clean up.

"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 roadway late Sunday morning, and it remained closed until Monday morning. NSTAR crews kept watch on a tilting utility pole through the night, and began repairs early Monday.

Erosion led to collapse of part of the bike path where it passes 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 the water main may require temporary interruptions later this week.