Boston Globe
October 22, 2003

Letter: Past and future at Hanscom

I join Ken Burns in honoring our nation's past and defending our historic landscapes ("No expansion at Hanscom," op ed, Oct. 17). But I also value and treasure the landscape that exists today.

In his recent op-ed article, Burns paints a stark picture in which expansion and unlimited growth at Hanscom Field destroy the character and beauty of the historic towns of Lexington, Concord, Lincoln, and Bedford. But these towns are also home to high-tech companies, groundbreaking research and development, and smart entrepreneurship.

Today's landscape is a mix of our revolutionary and literary past and our high-tech future. Concord is home to the Old North Bridge and Lucent Technology. Less than a mile away, the 1 million annual visitors to the Minute Man National Park share the same roads as thousands of drivers commuting to and from the town's many office parks. As one of the touchstones of the American Revolution, this area entered the history books in 1775, and it has not looked back since.

For example, the AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) technology used by the US military for the last 20 years was developed at Hanscom Air Force Base. The progress taking place today will be the history of tomorrow. Part of that history is a small airfield called Hanscom Field. Since 1941, Hanscom Field has operated as an active airport while recognizing the rich local history.

Protecting and honoring our nation's history is not inconsistent with providing good jobs, supporting our regional economy, and planning responsible development. A visit to Hanscom Field and the beautiful park next door offers all the evidence one needs.

Craig P. Coy
Chief Executive Officer
Massachusetts Port Authority
East Boston

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