At its August 20, 2026 meeting, the Chatham Waterways Advisory Committee approved a motion supporting a plan to engage the United States Coast Guard and work in partnership to find a way to restore Chatham Light’s original characteristics. The committee recommends that the Select Board endorse this plan as the right next step.

The committee’s recommendation recognizes the importance of those characteristics in protecting mariners offshore and nearshore.

The discussion included the potential for modern LED technology and appropriate Fresnel optics to restore the broad, recognizable sweep and identifying characteristics that have long made Chatham Light so important to mariners and the community. The details of a solution would be developed through engagement with the Coast Guard.

The committee’s vote adds an important waterways and boating perspective to the growing community support for a constructive path forward. We appreciate its attention to the navigational and safety concerns raised by the beacon change.

Watch the recording of the August 20 Waterways Advisory Committee hearing, including the Chatham Light discussion, motion and vote.

View the official August 20 Waterways Advisory Committee agenda.