To the editor:

A recent news item tells us that the Portsmouth State Police Barracks is scheduled for rehabilitation. Does that means that the State Troopers are going to patrol Aquidneck Island’s state highways? Do you need a barracks to patrol a highway? 

I also read that there is a shortage of troopers. I hope that the press explores these apparent incongruities. If and when the troopers return to the island they should be aware that East Main Road and other sections of state highways have continued their descent into disrepair. I suggest heavy-duty shock absorbers replaced at least semi-annually. The State Police hierarchy can expect increased union grievances for poor working conditions. There are no free lunches.

A second recent news item describes a recent rebellion amongst East Bay legislators who want the bike path bridges replaced in Warren and Barrington. They want legislation directing RIDOT to get it done. Good try. Of course that opens the door for other legislators to seek similar remedies for their districts. Perhaps Aquidneck Islands legislators could develop a similar coalition for at least East Main Road. 

We were promised 41 years ago a major upgrade. Perhaps our Congressional delegation could tell us what we can expect of these various political  machinations going on in Washington regarding infrastructure. In the meantime, we got a nice upgrade of Green Lane in Middletown. The “on time, on budget” sign said it cost $1.5 million for resurfacing, a sidewalk and curbing. 

I ask the readers of this letter to compared the traffic volumes there to those on Quaker Hill, Portsmouth. As for sidewalks in the Quaker Hill area, I remind the grand pooh-bahs of government that the Quaker Hill area has three senior citizen living facilities, one medical clinic, two pharmacies, and either no sidewalks or those that do exist in major disrepair.

Philip Driscoll

169 Immokolee Drive

Portsmouth