Board hears Board of Health plea to enforce idling rules at Steamship Authority lot in Woods Hole

Members of the Board of Health told the Select Board on Sept. 23 that residents near the Steamship Authority parking lot in Woods Hole are experiencing prolonged diesel exhaust and noise from idling trucks and private vehicles.

George Feuerlder, speaking for the Board of Health, described repeated complaints over two years and said the board believes enforcement of Massachusetts' idling law would be an effective, low‑cost intervention. "We're sticking to it," he said, urging use of embarkation funds for enforcement or a designated enforcement position to patrol during peak hours.

Chief Lohrey of the Falmouth Police Department said the department plans a soft approach that will begin with education and outreach to trucking companies, and targeted enforcement when call volume and staffing permit. He noted staffing constraints but said nine recruits are expected Oct. 14 and the department will explore bicycle patrols and a Woods Hole foot beat when feasible.

Resident Bob Morris, who lives downwind of the lot, said a longstanding town sign asking heavy trucks to shut off engines is ineffective. "The easiest way to get the word out to truckers is give a few of them tickets," he said. The board took the issue under advisement and asked staff to pursue coordination with the Steamship Authority and trucking firms.

The board did not vote on any enforcement measure at the meeting; staff said the town will investigate options for targeted enforcement and potential use of embarking funds.