Editor:

Many people appreciate a wonderful resource we have in Scarborough – the Eastern Trail. The Old Eastern Railroad bed is a great way to get fresh air and exercise in the natural beauty of our coastal community. In order for all to enjoy the trail, there are some rules and guidelines that we all should be aware of.

•Lock your valuables in the trunk of your car

•Respect others around you when walking your dog, there are many people who are fearful of dogs – no matter how friendly they are – please keep your dogs under control.

•Pick up after your pets

•Respect the property rights of those who abut the trail – stay on the marked trail

•Take care of your trash

We are currently experiencing a problem with cyclists accessing the trail by cutting through private property.  For instance the Hillcrest Retirement Community, this is a privately owned neighborhood, there is no public access to the trail there.  The closest public access is on Portland Farms Road. Also note that the trail ends just north of the community at the Nonesuch River, there is no way to get over the river, you must either take Route 1 or the “official” Eastern Trail which runs down Black Point Road to Highland Avenue into South Portland.

Respect and consideration for others will go a long way in making the Eastern Trail an enjoyable community asset for all.

Officer Joe Giacomantonio

Community Resource Officer

Scarborough Police Department