Conduit Drop Segment

For seventy years the conduits have been a point of contention between Tideriders and islanders. The tracks, floating on the ocean surface, prevent boats from crossing. Tideriders have been opposed to the conduits since their inception, and the high rate of family bankruptcy in the first decade supports their point of view. When The Unity was defeated thirty years ago, they believed the conduits would be torn down as a result. Instead, the network has expanded. Islanders refused to give up the often life-saving benefits of the conduits, resulting in an impasse that has lasted decades.   Within the past few months, a new type of track segment has been developed and installed that we hope will restore Tideriders' traditional sailing routes without removing any of the existing conduits. These drop segments can temporarily lower themselves into the water, allowing boats to pass safely.