Final Environmental Impact Report - Whittier Bridge/I-95 ...

December 21, 2011
To Responsible Parties for the Rt. 95 Whittier Bridge Project:
RE: MEPA Office EEA #14427
I am the President of the Whittier Point Condo Association in Amesbury. I own one of the units in the
complex as my second home. I am also a senior executive at a $3 billion company responsible for 8,000
employees. Prior to this decision to build a new bridge, this property was a quiet, visually appealing
place to live and enjoy the natural water and land environment. Based on those facts, I made a
significant investment in this property and our property values have maintained their value based on
this unique setting.
With the extensive knowledge of the impact of this bridge that is repeatedly sighted in the
environmental study on our property, I would like to voice my serious concerns and suggest a solut~o~
that will not only serve the residents of Whittier Point but also the town of Amesbury, the state of
Massachusetts and MOOT in the building of this new bridge.
The residents' concerns fall into multiple categories and they are all listed in the comments sent to the
environmental impact study. I will highlight just a few. Our proposal and these issues are all found in
the Environmental Assessment Impact Report dated November 2011.
1. Safety - we have already been exposed to dangerous situations both on this bridge and
highway through serious accidents on the highway. Ifthat road is closer, accidents; dangerous
chemical spills; chemicals for ice and snow; noise volumes all create serious threats to residents
in the condo complex including three young children under 6 and senior citizens.
2. Aesthetic devaluation - our properties retain value because of our natural environment for
birds, eagles, animals and fish. This new bridge will disrupt this environment and the
construction may impact forever this setting. Having a bridge almost directly in front of our
condos destroys this visual setting.
3. Construction impact - the environmental study sights the need for some temporary right of way
that will be necessary on our property and we expect a barge will be placed in front of our
property disturbing our dock and the ability to enjoy our boating access. Our driveway is only
one way in and out. Risk of disturbance to access to our houses or driveway is a concern. Also
any blasting necessary would cause foundation and septic system disturbances that would cause
serious financial implications and potential monitoring in each of our units that will cause
expense to the project and possible lawsuits if there is a problem.
These are just a few concerns not to mention, the misery the residents will need to endure for three
,
years during construction, noise and devasfati~n. The proposed barrier wall will be right up against the
condo building and will be exceedingly unattractive reducing the future value of our properties.
We have a unique situation here with only five impacted families - four condos and one home. It is also
unique that all of us are willing to give up our homes at reasonable buyout values to the state without