HomeMy WebLinkAboutPhil Odence_Opposition to Proposed Bonnybrook Trust Dock Extension ProjectFrom: Phil Odence <podence@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, March 5, 2023 9:22 AM
To: Cavanaugh, Kimberly
Subject: Opposi on to Proposed Bonnybrook Trust Dock Extension Project
To the Barnstable Conserva on Commission:
As a Cotuit resident and sailor of more than 50 years, I am opposed to extending the Bonnybrook pier further into the
already narrow and o en crowded passage.
I am sympathe c to the Sidman’s situa on; there was less beach there when the pier ini ally went in. On the other hand,
aerial photos from the 1990s, prior to the pier, show even more beach in front of the Sidman's than there is today. Such is
the dynamic nature of the coastline in that area. The southeastern Cotuit coast has been in a constant state of change
over the last century and will con nue to evolve.
The applicant's desire to build a longer pier is understandable. Unfortunately, the shi ing sands have also been at work
on the other side of the passage. A er the dredging, the point of the island has grown in the direc on of the pier severely
pinching the entrance to the harbor.
Worsening the situa on, the constrained harbor entrance has resulted in strong dal currents through the opening.
Naviga ng against the current in a light breeze, sailboats need to “hug the shore” to make headway. Even as it stands
today, the pier forces vessels out into the stronger current which is a significant obstacle to passage under those
condi ons.
The benefit to individuals of extending an infrequently-used pier would be significantly outweighed by the nega ve
impact on the public good.
Respec ully submi ed,
L Philip Odence
15 Old Shore Road, Cotuit
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