Eastham’s hidden gem deserves to be protected, Cape Cod Times
Joyce Donovan
Sept 25, 2020

This column was originally submitted as a letter to the Eastham Select Board.

I recently viewed the Sept. 14 Select Board meeting and I share the same concerns as neighbors who are working diligently to keep Rock Harbor the beautiful, natural resource that it is. It speaks Cape Cod, it is Cape Cod.

My husband, Bill, and I just recently became aware of this comprehensive proposed project of the harbormaster building. In as much as we realize the need for a new home for the harbormaster and the town’s environmental services staff, this proposal does not come close to the original plan voted on at the 2018 town meeting. The rendering of the building, in my opinion, does not characterize the history of Cape Cod design. The building and walkways are not aesthetic and are not styled after one of the most beloved art designs in New England.

I think if more Eastham residents and property owners were privy to the schematic design of the building, they would want to go back to the drawing board.

We have owned property on Bridge Road for close to 40 years and have rented a boat slip in Eastham Rock Harbor for 20 of those. We appreciate the simplistic, natural beauty that the harbor provides. As boat slip renters, we see Rock Harbor being utilized June through September by many Eastham residents, not only the 50 slip users. In our experience, the harbor is always busy and the traffic flow pattern presented in the proposed plan is neither logical nor practical. The rinse stations would be better utilized near the beach! I question how the harbormaster staff is going to monitor increased foot traffic that a “destination venue” may create after hours. On occasion during holidays, we have had unwelcome visitors walking on, sitting on and leaving trash on our boat.

Hopefully, this beautiful natural resource will keep the distinction of being Eastham’s “hidden gem!” I will share my opinions with the Select Board and town administrator.