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Misses a Larger Point

We must protect Essex’s treasure. A recent letter [“We can Do Better,” May 25 by Doug Seaver] criticized the objections of the leadership of the Connecticut River Museum (CRM) as small minded, suggesting that the primary objection to a plan by the owners of Essex Boat Works to open a restaurant was about protecting the museum’s liquor license and parking. To seize on these details misses a much larger point about the damage it will do to the future growth of an important town institution.

As a resident of Essex, I am thrilled that the town is considering approving the addition of a restaurant on the property of Essex Boat Works near the CRM as dining options in Essex are frustratingly few.

It is tragic that the town is even considering a development plan that will bisect the two museum properties with an active roadway that will sharply increase traffic on lower Main Street and direct that traffic between the two parcels of the museum property. Given the thousands of small children who visit the CRM, this change puts them at risk of injury or worse.

The purchase of the upper property and the historic Lay House was funded by local residents with the goal of expanding the museum’s education and community outreach. To have the property cut in two by a busy roadway will seriously restrict the future educational mission of a vibrant Essex institution for the benefit of one business owner.

It is my sincere hope that the leadership of Essex will find a way to increase dining options in town without damaging the future of the CRM, arguably the jewel in the crown of Essex that contributes so much to the charm of our wonderful community.

The next hearing, at the Essex Town Hall, is at 7 p.m. on Monday, June 19.

Bob Osborn

Essex