The Martha’s Vineyard Commission last Thursday voted to include Checamo and Stoney Hill Paths in a special protection district that among other things will prevent them from being clear-cut and widened in the future.

Commissioners voted 8-2 to include the two West Tisbury roads in the commission’s special ways district of critical planning concern.

With the vote, a moratorium will remain in place for all development 20 feet from the centerline of both roads. Town officials will now review existing regulations for ancient ways and determine if they will be used for the two roadways or whether new regulations are needed.

Any new regulations must be approved by voters at town meeting.

The nomination for Checamo and Stoney Hill Paths notes that the two paths predate the colonial era. The name Checamo is believed to be Algonquin, literally translated “path to the fishes.” The path was used by Wampanoags to travel from Lambert’s Cove to Duarte’s Pond.

“These two trails are part of a network of interconnecting trails that link all Island towns,” the nomination states. “They are a visible part of our history, and offer a hope for our future — as a safe alternative to roads monopolized by motor vehicles . . . uncontrolled or inappropriate development would compromise the free flow of foot and hoof passage on these trails, and possibly usurp them for vehicular traffic or block them entirely. Their loss would be irreplaceable.”

On Thursday commissioner Linda Sibley made the motion to accept the two roadways into the district, with an added provision ensuring that any current buildable lots will remain that way.

Commissioners James Athearn and Andrew Woodruff opposed including the provision in the motion. Although both said they supported designation of the two roads, the addition of the language caused them to vote against the motion.