Home
ShowsBefore You GoBulletin BoardContactAboutSearch
Show and Features |
Culture Watch | Question of the Week | Letters of the Week |
Traveler's Aid | Library | Host's View
 

 

Questions about Ocracoke Island

Interesting article. Why is it that Martha's Vineyard , MA (where my family has vacationed for more than 30 years) escapes the problems experienced by the North Carolina shoretowns, the entire Jersey Shore (absolutely horrid-- the worst), Delaware beaches, and Maryland shores? I'm sure I'm leaving many other "blighted" areas out of the mix.

There are no drive-through liquor stores, McD's or other gems from "civilization" on MV. Only small, island-run businesses, with a handful of exceptions such as an A & P and a Dairy Queen. Even these places blend into the locale with their architectural style, and aren't that obnoxious.

Why? Because the year-round and summer-long residents take special pride in their island, pass restrictive zoning, and (this is perhaps the most important element) DO NOT OVERBUILD. Building along the beach, additionally , is prohibited. I'm shocked when I hear NJ shore residents whine that their barrier islands are eroding away. No duh-- if you build 6 bedroom homes on top of the dunes, this is going to happen!!

Approximately 5% of the selling price of every property sold on the Vineyard goes into a "land bank," which exists solely to purchase open spaces for a public trust. Everyone can visit these properties, which include walking trails along beaches and bird sanctuaries.

Perhaps if other shore areas of this country or even the federal government could learn from the Vineyard's experience, our seashores would again be wonderful places to vacation.

Thanks for letting me blow off some steam!

--Aileen

 

{ This Week's Index | Next Letter }

{ Main Letters Page }

American Public Media
American Public Media Home | Search | How to Listen
©2004 American Public Media |
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy