The Globe’s editorial calling for a new opportunity on Long Island underscores the boundless, untapped potential within the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park — and the need for planning and investment to reach it.

Long Island and Peddocks Island, the two largest islands in the park system, have served a wide range of military, economic, and community needs over the centuries. As Boston’s largest natural asset, the islands are our first line of defense against storm surge and an important public health resource as a respite from increasing urbanization.

The decommissioning of the Long Island Bridge was an infrastructure setback, but with a comprehensive water transportation study and a re-visioning of Peddocks Island underway, the region is poised to realize the islands’ abundant opportunities. Now is the time for a coordinated development plan for Long and Peddocks islands to optimize the broad range of possibilities to benefit the public.

Kathy Abbott

CEO and president

Boston Harbor Now

Boston