Jason Cooper, a real estate investor, developer, and property manager, has served as a steering committee member and trail manager of Friends of the West River Trail.
BRATTLEBORO-I strongly support revitalizing the Island and bridges in downtown Brattleboro. I believe this area holds tremendous potential to become a vibrant, unique asset for our community - an amenity that would enhance our town's livability, appeal, and connection to the Connecticut River.
While the town of Hinsdale, New Hampshire, might not have a stake in supporting this project - understandably, as the Island offers little direct benefit to its residents - Brattleboro has a real opportunity here.
The possibility of creating a scenic, walkable loop through the island and across both bridges has already inspired dozens of people I've spoken with who regularly walk that very route. With some thoughtful planning and care, we could develop a recreational space that would bring people together right in the heart of our downtown.
Moreover, the idea of establishing a boat landing downtown is an exciting one. Each summer, hundreds of people travel the Connecticut River on "source to sea" trips. Few towns along the river offer boaters convenient access to local amenities.
Brattleboro could become a key stop - an oasis for travelers to dock, restock supplies, dine, and explore. This would not only enrich our town's connection to the river but also stimulate downtown commerce. Residents from nearby sections of the river could boat into town, offering a new way to experience Brattleboro's restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
Currently, the Island is suffering from lack of visibility and oversight. As it stands, it attracts encampments and illicit activity - an unfortunate but predictable consequence of its seclusion.
Simply closing off the Island will not solve this problem; in fact, it will likely make things worse by further isolating it and limiting accountability.
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We've already seen what works. When the West River Trail was developed in 2011, we encountered similar challenges - homeless encampments, trash, and safety concerns. But once the trail was cleaned, opened, and regularly used by the public, the encampments did not return. Public use was the most effective form of stewardship. And all this was done with volunteers and donations.
We can do this on the Island as well. With community effort, clear rules, and active use, we can transform the space.
I propose that the Island be maintained with the following in mind:
• Clear signage prohibiting camping, fires, and littering and offering a phone number to report problems
• Safe lighting at night
• Community stewardship - volunteers committed to keeping the island clean and safe and to addressing problems
Just as volunteers helped make the West River Trail a success, there is a strong group of citizen volunteers willing to step up for the Island. We are motivated, organized, and eager to see this space thrive as a public asset.
I urge the Selectboard to support this effort - not just to prevent problems, but to realize a powerful vision: a safer, more vibrant, and more connected Brattleboro.
This Voices Viewpoint was submitted to The Commons.
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