Middle Street & Lafayette Road Bicycle & Pedestrian Corridor Project

The goal of this project, implemented in the fall of 2018, was to make travel along a critical section of Route 1 safer and more appealing for pedestrians and bicyclists of all ages. Initially identified in the City's Safe Routes to School Action Plan in 2010, this project was also highlighted as a high priority in the City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.

The project, which received funding from a NHDOT Safe Routes to School Grant, evaluated options for creating an on-road bike route along Route 1 between the High School and Downtown.  Pedestrian crossings at the intersections along this corridor were also assessed to determine where improvements might be necessary to improve safety and accessibility. The City worked with an engineering team led by Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. on this project.

At its March 15, 2021 meeting the City Council voted to conduct a study, in accordance with communications received from Bill Watson at NH DOT), starting April 15, 2021, making modifications to the Middle Street Bike Lane from Highland Street to the Intersection of Lincoln Avenue and Middle Street: moving the cars back to the curb, adding a flashing crosswalk sign and crosswalk, and designating Lincoln Avenue as a Safe Route to School bike route. The Council directed that following the study there would be a discussion and decision between city staff, elected officials, community members and the State Department of Transportation on the final configuration of bike lanes along Middle Street or other acceptable options.

On March 10, 2022 the City hosted a public meeting to receive feedback on the reconfiguration during the continuing test period and to announce a survey of residents. To participate in the survey, please click on the link in the right hand column.

Resources

Public Meetings and Presentations

Project Documents, Studies, Plans, Data

Press Releases