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Community Corner

"New Prudence Ferry"


I am writing to express my concern regarding the use of the parcel on prudence for private business.  It is my understanding that land was left for the citizens of Portsmouth for public use.  I don't feel leasing to A&R Marine (private business) is in the spirit of the gift given to Portsmouth.  I also have concerns for the structure of this proposed dock and buildings on this lot.           1:  96 foot WOODEN PEIR???         2:  30 x 15' METAL  trailer at water's edge???         3:  30 x 15' Bldg???This wooden dock will be a maintenance nightmare, I also think the metal trailer/container, on or near the water's edge is problematic. What about traffic congestion at Homestead.  It is already a nightmare, adding another ferry landing will create even more traffic problems, the next thing they will want will be a traffic light, and what about the most widely used centrally located launching ramp.  Are we to believe that will stay accessible?  What about all those moorings, do those people have a say, or are they just being displaced.
My concerns are when Medly goes out of business, which is most likely, A&R will then purchase and use the dock Medly currently uses.  That is the best water depth for ferry landing.  What will happen with A&R's giant FERRY TERMINAL, we will get left with the aftermath.  ( a slowly rotting 96 foot wooden peir).  The winter storms will wreak havoc on that dock, and the parking lot buildings they propose.
Finally, the expense of this new ferry is very concerning.  We all know the PUC will allow rates that reflect A&R Marines expenses and a little bit of profit.  The current ferry is adequate for our needs, and is inexpensive.  The rates for this new ferry will have to be considerably higher to cover their costs alone.  The proposed "Ferry Terminal" seems like a very expensive and bad idea for Prudence residents and Portsmouth tax payer.  

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