As an owner of the national historic landmark building across from Oakwood for nearly 50 years, we have consistently ensured the building’s important historic character and value the unique qualities of the town. We are enthusiastic about seeing the eyesore hardware building replaced with much needed housing and recognize that virtually anything would be an improvement.
But visitors come to Oak Bluffs because it is a genuine window into our past rich history. The Martha’s Vineyard Commission (MVC) is mandated to consider historic context for replacement buildings on Circuit avenue. Two qualified architects and the commission’s own consultant said the proposed building does not satisfy historic requirements. In fact, one commissioner dubbed it a “cheap imitation of a style of building.”
The developers have stated they cannot afford to build the previously MVC-approved charming building drafted by Vineyard architect Chuck Sullivan. The current sketch design was not made by an architect, is missing many important elements and uses modular construction.
We provided the developer with architecturally drafted alternate modular plans that are more space efficient, less costly to build and satisfy historic standards — a genuine offer that many have said would be hard to pass up. And yet it seems to have fallen on deaf ears.
So, my question is: “What am I missing?” This building will likely be standing long after anyone reading this will be around. Oak Bluffs deserves a building that honors, rather than diminishes, the town’s legacy, all while achieving very important community goals.
The MVC dropped the ball.
Larry Hardoon
Brookline and Edgartown
This article appears in June 5, 2026.