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Committee urges plan language to keep options open on travel lift, haul-out capacity and storm mitigation
Summary
Members recommended adding clearer language supporting exploration of additional travel-lift capacity or alternative removal options and urged inclusion of storm-mitigation planning after multiple recent episodes where vessel removal was difficult during severe weather.
Harbor Plan Update Committee members pressed for stronger plan language to address haul-out capacity, travel-lift availability and storm-response options after recounting recent cases where boat removal during storms proved difficult.
Several members described instances when Nantucket Moorings required vessel owners to move for storms and the last-minute availability of slips or off-island haul-out options left some vessels with limited options. Committee members said such scenarios underline the town's vulnerability if travel-lift capacity is constrained and suggested the plan should encourage the town to seek alternative locations, contingency agreements or additional traveling-lift capacity.
The committee recommended adding a provision that the town pursue alternatives to improve the ability to remove and store vessels safely ahead of high-impact weather, recognizing that siting a second travel lift or large haul-out facility may be constrained by space and permitting. Members said including such language in the plan would at least keep the option alive for future capital planning and grant-seeking.
Members also suggested the plan include a broader "storm mitigation" or emergency haul-out strategy to capture lessons from past events and to coordinate roles among the harbor master, local boatyards and emergency responders.
The committee asked staff to draft language that emphasizes pursuit of alternatives where feasible and to identify potential constraints for siting additional haul-out facilities before the next meeting.
