Asphalt vs. marsh

I attended the Feb. 27 meeting at the Bangor Civic Center that was held to examine issues surrounding the protection of the Penjajawoc Marsh. While there was some landowner resistance to further protecting the marsh, I was pleased to note a common ground as well. In fact, numerous property owners along Stillwater Avenue who were concerned about the effect of an additional setback (75 feet vs. 50 feet) on property values also expressed an appreciation for the marsh and a desire to protect it if at all possible. In other words, a person can be opposed to extending the setback but in favor of preserving the marsh. These are not mutually exclusive viewpoints.

Mayor John Rohman’s comment following the meeting that it is “our responsibility to keep that balance” between “development and green space” is well taken. Serious harm has already been done to the Penjajawoc Marsh area due in large part to the impervious surface (i.e., asphalt) that exists.

The addition of more asphalt would threaten its viability even further. I hope our community is given the chance to look at the possible consequences of further commercial development in this area before we make an irreversible choice that all of us may regret.

Suzanne Kelly

Bangor