Letters

I can neither imagine what the rationalization is for folks to drive onto the beach (to park?), nor can I understand how the powers that be can justify letting it happen. It is such an unnatural activity in such a natural environment. I truly cannot wrap my mind around why anyone would risk polluting the sand with engine oil and other spills. Why anyone would want to deface the shoreline with tire tracks? What is the motivation? I don’t get it.

Obviously, I am opposed to allowing any beach driving and/or parking. The pilot program — decided on at an uncharacteristically quick meeting of the Southampton Town Board [“Town Board Votes on Pot Shop Regulations and Plans Hearing on East Quogue Beach Driving Pilot,” 27east.com, April 12] — suggests no more than 30 vehicles would be allowed at any time. Thirty vehicles. Would that be on the honor system? Who’s counting? My perception is that they would take up a lot of space. Will there be markers at the 75-foot mark east and west of the center line of Triton Lane?

I wonder if those who want to drive onto the beach regularly enjoy being there. Do they appreciate the smell and taste and feel of the sea air, the sounds and sights of the ocean? I hate the thought of smelling vehicle exhaust and seeing parked vehicles. Who wants to picnic surrounded by 4x4 vehicles? Nothing surpasses the sight of sand and dune.

I encourage the Town Board to consider the precedent being set. I love that there are no homes along the stretch of beach in Hampton Bays — why should there be cars and trucks?

I wrote a letter to the editor seven years ago expressing the exact same sentiment. I think it’s more urgent now to protect the environment, the wildlife and the peaceful enjoyment of our beaches by those willing to leave only footprints in the sand.

Patty Hammill

Hampton Bays