A potential alteration in vessel speed regulations within Nantucket Sound, intended to safeguard the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales, poses a profound concern for Nantucket’s economy, as a study by the University of Massachusetts Donahue Institute suggests. It forecasts a considerable $300 million annual plunge in economic activity, should these restrictions come into effect.
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Concerns for commuters, visitors and trade
The impact on commuters is paramount, as the island’s workforce relies heavily on ferry services. Approximately 1,255 commuters, forming 22% of Nantucket’s workforce, would face the brunt of it. Slower speeds would mean a lengthy six-hour round trip, thus rendering daily commutes unrealistic. Many might cease commuting entirely, potentially leading to a loss of $192 million in economic turnover, not to mention 980 jobs and $33 million in tax revenues.
The proposed measures could similarly discourage visitors, particularly the day-trippers and those making short visits. Increased travel inconvenience would deter a significant number. This could culminate in a $72 million decline in economic activity, alongside 465 job losses and a reduction of $13.8 million in tax income.
Trade, too, could take a beating, with the probable reduction in cargo capacity looking grim. Rod Motamedi, from the Donahue Institute, points out the risk of losing outbound trade worth about $22 million, which could deal a blow to 60 jobs and tax revenue reductions by $2.7 million. The implications for inbound trade, particularly in essential provisions such as food and medical supplies, while harder to quantify, are unmistakably adverse.
Effects on public services, health care and education
The potential slowing or reduction in ferry services extends its impact to essential services on the mainland. Residents voice concerns regarding medical access, with folks like Peter Schaefer emphasizing the convenience current ferry services provide. As Schaefer remarks, “It’s possible to complete doctor visits in a day without exorbitant airfare. The proposed changes might disrupt that.”
Rod Motamedi also highlighted challenges in measuring the loss of services precisely but acknowledged their palpable effect on quality of life. Educational pursuits could suffer too, as schools on the island heavily rely on ferries for educational excursions and sports activities.
Where are the right whales?
Despite these proposed restrictions, Nantucket authorities have contested the necessity based on studies conducted around the whales’ presence. Their collective correspondence to regulatory bodies insists on directing conservation efforts where the whales truly are, which they argue, is not Nantucket Sound.
Ferry operators have reported no documented sightings of right whales in Nantucket Sound during over a million crossings in the past 25 years, strengthening their case. However, researchers from the New England Aquarium have been observing increased right whale activity near the Nantucket Shoals, showcasing how complex their migratory patterns can be.
Quantifying effects on Nantucket’s economy
During a joint session with various Nantucket councils, Select Board Chairwoman Brooke Mohr expressed scepticism toward NOAA’s initial financial impact estimate of “tens of millions.” Local authorities sought ~further investigation, deeming the estimate unrealistic.
Mohr stated, “There’s a regulatory prerequisite for comprehensive review and public engagement when economic impacts hit $100 million. Thus, we teamed up with the Donahue Institute for a thorough analysis.” And indeed, the institute’s findings corroborate a dire projection: a $286 million drop in economic activity, the potential eradication of 1,500 jobs, and more.
Concerns raised over housing and property values
Nantucket leaders also fret about housing market shifts and property devaluation. Wendy Hudson articulated concerns that an exodus from the island could follow, driving property values downwards.
Motamedi concurs, suggesting that a decline in Nantucket’s year-round appeal might result in more seasonally vacant homes, a phenomenon already prevalent. Coupled with this, declining property values could lead to shifts in tax responsibility, potentially burdening lower-income residents and forcing relocations.
In conclusion, Nantucket’s stakeholders have voiced their concerns, sending data and a plea to governmental representatives, including a letter to Governor Maura Healey. Their aim is to prompt a reevaluation of these proposed maritime regulations. The issue, while complex, underscores an intersection of environmental conservation and economic sustainability. Readers interested in this unfolding narrative might support local journalism and consider subscribing to the Cape Cod Times.
