Please accept this letter of endorsement for the Stop and Shop Company’s application for a new store in Tisbury. While some people have expressed concerns with the proposal, I am anxious to see it built.

The downtown area is in desperate need of revitalization. There is no doubt in my mind that a new supermarket on Water Street will help attract additional improvements to the area.

Martha’s Vineyard residents and visitors need a modern grocery store. Stop and Shop is proposing a store that will improve the entire area, while improving our shopping experience. Consider the fact that the new building is only slightly larger (6,500 square feet) than the existing building and the fact that it will be much more attractive.

Reviewers need to consider that the design will allow 42 needed parking spaces beneath the building, not to mention the fact that Stop and Shop has agreed to fix the town owned parking lot next door. There is no chance that the town has the funds to make these parking improvements. I am convinced that the new store and the parking improvements will help attract more Island visitors and grow our local economy. And, this increased economic activity will help bring additional businesses and improved conditions to Vineyard Haven.

The Martha’s Vineyard Commission has a great opportunity to bring some economic vitality to Vineyard Haven at no cost to local taxpayers. Please do not delay this important project any longer.

Patricia Medeiros

Edgartown