Blue Grotto sits in the middle of a residential community. Most homes here were built after Tom McQuarrie opened the doors to the Grotto in 1965. Nevertheless, even though we are not latecomers to the party, staying in the good graces of our neighbors is important to us.
There are four things you can do to help us in this respect. Some of these are topics we’ve addressed previously. But, judging from things we’ve seen, they bear repeating. Here they are:
1 Patronize local businesses
It helps us when our visitors are seen as contributing to the local economy. The money you spend at local restaurants and stores finds its way into the pockets of our neighbors, both directly and indirectly.
Our website has a listing of locally owned and operated eateries as well as things to do with non-diving family and friends. Take advantage of these resources.
2 Slow down
The dirt roads leading into and out of the Grotto are narrow and have no sidewalks. It’s not unusual to see our neighbors using these roads to walk their dogs, ride their bikes or even ride horses.
Even if you obey the posted speed limit of 25 mph, it can seem to someone on foot as though you are taking part in the Indianapolis 500. So, as you approach or leave the Grotto, watch out for our neighbors. Slow down even further and give them plenty of space.
Also, remember that, during dry spells, the roads can be very dusty. Keeping your speed down will keep the dust you disturb to a minimum.
3 Don’t block the road
Our dive center does not open until 8:00 am. Problems can arise when students and divers get here before this. The gate may be open before 8:00, but it’s not something you can count on. There is no benefit in arriving early because you can’t check in before 8:00.
Of particular concern is when vehicles show up before 8:00 AM and block the gate. This makes it difficult for our staff to get to work and for people staying overnight to go out for breakfast. Even worse is when cars end up in the road. This can make it hard for our neighbors to get to and from their homes, families and jobs.
Plan your drive so you arrive at 8:00. No sooner.
4 Remember that noise annoys
This is more of a problem at other dive sites, but occasionally, we run into it here at Blue Grotto. Remember that people come to Blue Grotto to connect with nature above and below water. They do not come to experience your poor taste in music, blasted out at 100+ decibels.
This not only annoys other divers, but it also really upsets our neighbors. Leave the sound system at home. It is not welcome here.
Every little thing helps
Having neighbors who don’t see Blue Grotto as an unbearable nuisance assists us more than you can imagine. It helps ensure we will be able to operate for years to come.