The once great New England shore-side seafood destination that entertained the likes of many famous politicians and celebrities is now a dangerous, blighted eyesore that is ready for the wrecking ball. For multitudes of residents and visitors to Bert’s it evokes many wonderful memories of a big seaside restaurant that was always the scene of great food and good times. But now a drive by [the former] Bert’s would shed a tear along with those memories. Bert’s, after many years of neglect is structurally dangerous [and] detracts from the beauty and value of the seashore, Chiltonville, and the opening to the Eel River. In its present condition, it needs to go.
But the greater question is what about the whole area of blight around Bert’s? An ad hoc project approach will not solve the problem. That must be the part of a greater designated area that would encompass a coastal revitalization project. This designation, as has been the case in cities such as Quincy and its Quincy Center revitalization project, would open the area to programs like Mass Development and a host of federal and state funding methods. A designated coastal revitalization area will allow for long term planning and maximum use of resources to revitalize the whole area at the entrance to Plymouth Beach and should be seriously considered.
– Paul Curtis
Curtis is secretary of the Plymouth Redevelopment Authority.