Dear Editor,

As a member of the Truman Waterfront Advisory Board but commenting here as a private citizen, I would like to take this opportunity to commend and applaud the Mayor and Key West City Commission, acting as the Local Redevelopment Authority, for their wisdom in voting “YES” to accept the recommendation of the Truman Waterfront Advisory Board’s decision to keep the Truman Waterfront Park’s Quay Walkway at its present 70 feet width. As sometimes happens in life and also in government, a slight compromise had to be made for the approximate 1400′ length, and that was to have the width reduced somewhat in 2 separate areas, but from the preliminary design drawings it appears that the width will be reduced only for a total length of maybe 250′. The reason for the compromise was because of architectural design drawings and pending construction contracts.

So now by showing foresight in keeping most of the wide open space of the Quay Walkway intact, most importantly the area will now be able to continue to be used for all kinds of events and activities; will also allow plenty of room for large cranes to put power boats into the water and take them out; could be used as a docking area for ships and to more easily load and unload their cargo for both exports and imports, or if they need a berth because of distress or a pending hurricane. The Navy will also be able to utilize the wider width for their many activities or as an alternate road if needed. I’m sure there are many more uses for this Walkway, and some we might not have thought of as time goes on….to the year 2026 or 2066 or 2096. Thanks for keeping this TREMENDOUS ASSET of the Park and City intact. You won’t be sorry, and future generations will thank you for leaving them this legacy.

Ben Volpian