Sparky’s Hayrides in Brewster Back in Business

BREWSTER – Governor Charlie Baker signed a bill into law Friday that will allow for the return of a staple summer attraction in Brewster – Sparky’s Hayrides.

Last November, former Police Chief Richard Koch found that hayrides provided by Parker Williams Jr., also known as Sparky, along Paines Creek Road to Paines Creek Beach were illegal under Chapter 90 of state law.

Williams has been providing the hayrides on his 1948 John Deere Model A tractor during the summer season for more than two decades.

Efforts were quickly made by concerned citizens and local legislators, including State Representatives Tim Whelan (R-Brewster) and Sarah Peake (D-Provincetown) and State Senator Julian Cyr (D-Truro), to file a bill that gives municipalities the authority to regulate tractor rides.

“It’s an iconic hayride,” Whelan said.

“It’s part of what makes the Mid Cape and Lower Cape such a draw for tourists and visitors.”

Williams will be appearing before selectmen this week to apply for a permit.

“We have every reason to expect that by the end of this week he will be able to go back to taking visitors and residents alike on that beautiful ride up Paines Creek Road up to Paines Creek Beach to see the sunset,” Whelan said.

Whelan said government is designed to fix small problems to make life better for people.

“This is one of those cases where government is showing it works and we actually get things right,” he said.

Whelan said he was grateful to Peake and Cyr for their work, along with Gov. Baker for making it a priority to fast track the signing.

Unlike most bills, this change will be allowed to go into effect immediately. Most take 90 days to take effect.

Although Williams told Whelan that he owes him a ride and an ice cream, Whelan said they only thing owed to him by Williams is an enjoyable summer. Nearby Kate’s Seafood named an ice cream in Whelan’s honor for helping get Sparky back on the road.

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