To the Editor:
We are the property owners of 26 Pine Street in Vineyard Haven, which abuts the 14 Pine Street property, and are strongly opposed to the proposed changes planned for the 14 Pine Street property subdivision.
The property at 14 Pine Street has a long history on the Vineyard, and deserves the consideration of protection from major housing expansion and multiple lots being developed. The following are specific concerns that we have:
The proposed roadway to the eight-lot subdivision runs [within a few feet] of our 26 Pine Street property. In order to insert this street, a number (about 10) of large, mature trees will need to be cut and removed, leaving a very large void. The trees have been there for years, and provide noise protection and beauty to the 14 Pine Street property. The trees offer sanctuary for nesting turkeys each evening. Loss of these trees would cause significant environmental impact on the area, as well as reducing the value of our property.
The eight proposed lots would use the planned roadway to access their property. If each lot owner owned two autos (which is likely), that would result in 16 autos traveling up and down the proposed road. This is an air- (exhaust) and noise-pollution problem for us at 26 Pine Street.
Eight additional septic systems installed in the subdivision magnifies the potential continued and increasing pollution of Lake Tashmoo. These septic systems could potentially affect adjoining properties as well.
There is a nearby school on Spring Street, and the sidewalk along 14 Pine Street has children walking to and from school. The automobile movement in and out of the planned subdivision poses increasing safety risks to these children. They often are on bicycles or skateboards, which are difficult to notice. Many adults also use this sidewalk. The public will be placed at risk of injury from the additional traffic from the subdivision.
Pine Street is a very busy street without any additional traffic being created. Much of this comes from people turning off Franklin Street onto Center Street and then left on to Pine Street. The additional autos from the subdivisions will increase safety risks for all.
In addition, it should be noted that within 460 feet, there would be three roads and five driveways, not to mention two houses of worship. There is no other place in the town that has that kind of congestion, other than Five Corners.
We would ask the planning board to consider these concerns with in-depth evaluation of the proposed plans. The changes which are proposed will cause significant alteration of this historic property. We are concerned about the commercialization of the property resulting in environmental and safety problems for the community.
Jack W. McAninch and Burnet B. Sumner
Vineyard Haven
