Opinion/Letters: Wing Island is beautiful. Not everyone is able to enjoy that beauty.
Susan Goodspeed wrote a letter in Sunday’s Cape Cod Times (11/27), beautifully describing the walk and view on Wing Island. This is a walk I’ve taken many times and I understand the importance of preserving nature.
But I have a story to tell.
In the mid-’70s, a young man in his 20s had a spinal cord injury that left him a quadriplegic and as a result, he used a wheelchair. He had loved the beach and the ocean, but could no longer go there. Then a family friend helped the family bring him to the beach — not the prettiest beach on the Cape but one where the ocean came close to the parking lot. Two strong men helped the young man into an old inner tube and supported him in the calm ocean water where he floated with joy!
The young man was my brother Jim.
Jim was involved in the development of CORD (Cape Organization for Rights of the Disabled). He was an advocate for the Americans with Disabilities Act.
These days, many beaches have access areas for wheelchair users, but few boardwalks are accessible. This is not about the pros and cons of the proposed Wing Island Boardwalk. This is just to bring awareness and a different perspective.
Susan’s description says it all …”The narrow footpath across the island was pristine and the vista overlooking the bay was stunning.” She asks “Have you walked this path?”Please consider those who can’t.
Pamela Minckler Trummer, South Dennis
Hyannis Great Streets study promises to improve the downtown area
After attending the Great Streets presentation in Hyannis, I am convinced that the Stantec consultants along with Jeff Speck are on to something positive for the downtown Hyannis area. While change is never easy, it is obvious that this group of professionals did their homework with regard to upgrading the downtown area
They have developed a number of changes to the existing traffic pattern to ensure greater safety for pedestrians and cars while focusing on a more vibrant Main Street experience. The planning board is to be commended for their efforts to improve the center of Hyannis. It is important to recognize that Hyannis is an integral village in the town of Barnstable.
Maureen Grandmont, Hyannis
This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Cape Cod Letters to the Editor: Wing Island boardwalk allows all access
