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Get it Done

I support the building of the proposed segment of the Shoreline Greenway Trail alongside Route 1 on the east side of Guilford. I have cycled this stretch of Route 1 hundreds of times on my way to and from Hammonasset and can vouch for how dangerous it is to ride on the road there. This trail segment is designed, approved by the state, and fully funded and will provide an off-road alternative. Let’s get it done!

I don’t understand all the fuss and opposition. Of course there will be construction and some trees removed, but the green part of this project is enabling and encouraging non-motorized transportation. We can lose a few trees to move us in that direction. And it’s not a road, it’s a trail. Go look at the segment in Madison. Yes it will be chip-sealed, to keep the dust down, but it will enhance that section of Route 1 (which is not much to look at today). Ultimately it will connect with the Madison Route 1 segment and hopefully sidewalks and improved cycling lanes along Boston Street.

The demand to see the complete map of the route is not practical and we all know it. The trail will be developed over time in sections, many of which may be on existing roadway surface (e.g. along Boston Street and Leetes Island Road). Suggestions that the trail will alter the character of Guilford or destroy historic buildings or harm the environment are ridiculous. Do you really think the Shoreline Greenway Trail Committee wants to do that?

And wouldn’t it be nice if some of Guilford’s large landowners, instead of flatly refusing to even consider a trail through their property, would at least be open to some possible options?

Tom Jensen

Guilford