Why streetlights? | Letter

Published 1:30 am Thursday, July 2, 2020

In response to the news that street lights are not only planned but funded for Eastsound Village.

My question is why? Unless there are unreported occurrences within the village I don’t see that safety is an issue. Would the vandalism of a few years ago been avoided; the Barefoot Burglar stopped? Or would the lights have made their efforts easier? My understanding is that sidewalks with curbs, which are a safety issue in themselves, are planned as well. Would not gravel paths the same height as the roads work more effectively? Has a low level, less intrusive lighting been considered? I can’t imagine the residents of Eastsound want lights shining into their houses all night long.

As a 30-year resident of the island, if not Eastsound proper, I feel we, as stewards, have a responsibility to maintain the singular, if a bit rustic, charm of our village. As an Islander I cherish it and it is attractive to tourists. We are not Newport Beach nor even Friday Harbor. Orcas has its own distinct appeal.

I am curious to hear from residents of the village. Is this something they are in favor of and why. I feel more discussion is called for before it is a “fait accompli.”

Lynda Johnson

Eastsound