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Unnecessary Division

I understand that people who live along Route 146 feel threatened because their homes are so close to the road. I understand that they feel threatened because the designation as a National Historic District, a scenic highway, and a bicycle route has attracted many outsiders, increasing automobile and bicycle traffic and creating a safety hazard.

I understand that they may feel threatened by the very existence of a bicycle/pedestrian trail whose popularity might increase safety issues to the point that the town and the state might feel that something had to be done.

I do not, however, understand the vilification of the Shoreline Greenway Trail group by a few residents. We are their neighbors. Like volunteers in other groups, we dedicate much of our time to helping to improve the quality of life for all of the residents of our towns. We are good people who do not deserve to be described as scheming and conniving. That is hurtful and wrong.

Such disparagement creates a bogeyman, an enemy where there is none. It creates unnecessary division. It would be more fruitful to treat each other as neighbors and work together to protect both the historic nature of Guilford and its quality of life.

As for the Route One issue, it will primarily be decided by Guilford’s Board of Selectmen and the Connecticut Department of Transportation. While Shoreline Greenway Trail was instrumental in achieving the funding, most control is in the hands of others.

Whatever the final outcome, Shoreline Greenway Trail volunteers will continue to advocate for safe off road walking and biking in our shoreline towns.

Judith Miller, Chair

Shoreline Greenway Trail