Point Residents Not Happy with New Willow Street Kayak Racks

Some residents of the Point neighborhood are upset about new kayak racks installed on Willow Street recently.

Construction for the new racks began on March 23 on the Willow Street driftway.

The Point Association has expressed their dismay to city officials.

In an email message, Beth Cullen of the association told acting City Manager Joseph Nicholson that the city dropped the ball when it came to their installation.

“City leadership didn’t bother to inform the abutters, never mind discuss size, number, style/appearance, placement of the kayak racks. This is yet another example of lack of city process, collaboration, and a total mis-management of civic engagement,” Cullen said.

The six racks are being described as out-of-scale, ugly and represent blight.

Cullen said she has been getting calls from many neighbors outraged at the appearance of the racks.

Residents said they were under the impression that there were kayak racks planned for three driftways, not just one.

The racks are located on the recently-reconstructed historic carriageway that provides access to the harbor.

The city maintains dinghy storage areas on Battery, Cherry, Chestnut, Cypress, Pine, Poplar, Walnut and Willow Streets as well as at King Park Beach.

Residents can buy a sticker to use a dinghy storage unit for $40 per year. Nonresidents pay $60.

Storage areas are available from April 1 to Nov. 30.

“It is utterly shocking that the city would proceed in such a careless manner. The lack of consideration for the historic significance and beauty of Washington Street, and the lack communication from our city, speaks volumes,” Cullen said.

This story will be updated.

Submitted photos.