As a graduate of Freeport High School and now a newly elected town councilor, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who made this upcoming bond vote possible. Doug Leland wrote an excellent piece a few weeks ago about reconnecting our town and the potential of this investment. Here is a quick story about why I too am so passionate about this.

Growing up in Freeport, my mom and I would ride our bikes from our house near the Desert of Maine across the highway down to the marina. Our treat for riding would be a delicious cheeseburger, French fries and lemonade. Those gorgeous sunny days on a bike were always the highlight of summer. Even as a child, I knew that crossing the highway on the current bridge was dangerous. I cannot imagine the stress my mother felt as we attempted to “Frogger” with the bridge traffic, including semi-trucks!

A yes vote on March 9 will allow far more than just adult cyclists safer access across our bridges. A separated path will provide a physical barrier between families and the road. This means that more children will have access to cheeseburgers and maybe even the occasional ice cream. I encourage all Freeport voters to join me in supporting the March 9 bond.

Jake Daniele
Freeport Town Councilor At Large