A group of neighbors is appealing a recent superior court decision that Rogers Path in West Tisbury — an ancient way once used by Wampanoags and as a cart path by English colonials — must remain open for public use.

In a decision that helps cement the ongoing efforts of Island towns and conservation groups to protect the ancient ways that crisscross the Vineyard like so many strands of history, a superior court judge ruled yesterday that Rogers Path in West Tisbury is open for public use.

“The public has the right to use the entire length and width of the way,” wrote the Hon. C. Brian McDonald, an associate justice of the superior court.

Scott Bermudes jealously guards his privacy.