To the editor:

I read the article about the new electric pole installations, shrubbery removal and loss of sound mediation along the path of shrubbery removal. What interested me most were the words “jaking” and “jake braking.”

I visited Town Hall a few years ago about the noise on Route 24 near the last Exit No. 1 and the sudden 90-degree turn required to merge with West Main Road toward Newport. I was sent to a town employee, down the hall, in the department that deals with the roads. I reiterated my issue with the enormous noise caused by trucks “jaking” as they approached the arrows indicating the severe turn.

Jaking or jake braking is used by some trucks to slow down suddenly. It’s an engine brake that causes the engines to kick down gears to slow the truck. The sound is deafening to adjacent housing (I can attest to that). This town employee, (shirt and tie, management, I suspect) never heard of jaking or jake brakes. But, I too remember the “No Jaking” signs on Route 24 mentioned by Mr. Hamilton in the article. They need to be replaced now, more than ever!

My second mention is the foliage trimming along Route 24, especially in the same area just highlighted.

I can’t be too negative, but the foliage was savaged, not cut back. Limbs are ripped apart lesser branches just torn from the ground. Not a very pleasant view for tourists coming to recreate in the Newport area.

Thank you for the opportunity.

Vincent Goglia

Portsmouth