Despite clearly-stated concern about future precedent, the Martha’s Vineyard Commission agreed last week to shorten the protected special way in West Tisbury in order to preserve vehicle access for a private property owner.

A historic mail route in West Tisbury has been set aside for special protection from future development. The Martha’s Vineyard Commission late last week agreed to add Old Coach Road to a growing group of historic Island footpaths protected under the special ways critical planning district.