Are there any pictures or drafts showing what it's like now, versus the planned model?
It obviously sounds like a great idea from the perspective of the sailing center. I certainly understand the perspective of the abutters as well. I can only imagine that this discussion would be entirely different if someone had proposed a large, multi-purpose marina for use by both powerboats and sailboats
The other issue is that this site is being built upon a state park? Will there be any provisions for other boaters to use the site, or just the sailing center? Tricky ground here. But the facilities seem to be a dramatic improvement for lake access. My question is, lake access for whom?
It would be ideal if many of the positive comments made about this project were similar to comments made about other projects on the lake. Sadly, they aren't. I won't fall into the same bias, simply because this is a sailing center, because I think it's a great idea.
But there are many that have fought marinas, lake usage, powerboats in general, and virtually any lake development that allows access tooth and nail. Everyone's access should be cherished, especially when it's state or town property involved. Abutters should also be respected and heard. They are planning on constructing a breakwater, which used to bring howls of protest.
Anyway, I think it's possibly a good idea. And the same people that have either fought, or even stopped other projects around the lake, should apply the very same consideration to opponents of this project. Maybe a few tweaks could make this workable for all concerned? People need to look in the mirror on this one.
At any rate, I think this proposal could be improved if there was more an element of mixed use, and not one of exclusivity to it. Ames Farm being restored to former use could be a start, one which was needlessly stopped because of a few abutters.