Editors, Vineyard Gazette;

The proposal to develop 81 South Water Street, the site of Governor Mayhew’s 17th century homestead, is still being discussed during hearings at the Edgartown historic district commission. Thanks to efforts by the commissioners and the applicant, the revised design for the house is more sympathetic to the streetscape. The full impact of the infill to create a pool with a stone retaining wall around it, however, is yet to be fully evaluated and discussed.

This property’s house and garden lie close to wetland, as marked by the applicant’s surveyors, and are clearly visible from the water. A modern-looking pool with its four-foot security fence and retaining wall would alter the historic and picturesque view from the harbor for generations to come.

I urge the public to take time to view the latest revision on the town’s website to become informed about this critical application soon to be decided. Please support the historic district commission in requiring adherence to its guidelines. It is essential that this iconic shoreline view of historic houses is safeguarded.

Please email hdc@edgartown-ma.us, or send a letter to: Historic District Commission, P.O. Box 5158, Edgartown, MA 02539.

Jane Bradbury

Edgartown