Park and Ride Coming to Hampton?

Submitted on behalf of the Rockingham Planning Commission

The Rockingham Planning Commission is seeking public input as part of a feasibility study for constructing an intermodal transit center and park and ride facility at the interchange of US Route 1 and NH Route 101 in Hampton. A public forum on the project is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, at 7:00pm at Hampton Town Hall in the Selectmen’s meeting room.

The purpose of this meeting is to present citizens and public officials with information regarding the proposed project and to solicit public input in order determine whether the concept is feasible and likely to be supported by the local community.

The study includes developing conceptual design alternatives and cost estimates for a transit center, and for realigning the US1/NH101 interchange to improve safety and open up surrounding land. It will also evaluate the potential for expanded intercity bus service to Boston, Manchester Airport and Manchester; regional transit connections to Portsmouth and Seabrook, and a seasonal shuttle service connecting the beach with the town center and satellite parking.

Constructing a park and ride and transit center at the Route 1/Route 101 interchange was identified as an option for further study in the recent US Route 1 Corridor Study, developed by the Rockingham Planning Commission with guidance from the six communities along the Route 1 corridor. The transit
center and interchange redesign were proposed as a means of supporting improved access to intercity and regional transit for residents of Hampton and surrounding communities; improved local traffic circulation; economic and environmental benefits from improved access to Hampton Beach State Park
for visitors and residents alike; and potentially opening up land with excellent access to NH 101, I95, and US1 and Hampton’s Town Center.

The advisory committee for the project includes representatives from the Town of Hampton, Hampton Beach Area Commission, Coastal Economic Development Commission and Hampton Chamber of Commerce, NH State Parks, and transit operators. Community and business input will be key to determining the future of the concept. According to John Nyhan, Chairman of the Hampton Beach Area
Commission, ”This is something that we have all talked about for many years and I am very pleased that we are seeing positive movement in establishing the feasibility of a transit center that could provide transportation options to our many summer visitors as well as Hampton residents.”

Local residents, business owners, beach visitors and other members of the public are encouraged to attend the meeting, learn about the study and add ideas and concerns.

For more information contact Scott Bogle at the Rockingham Planning Commission at 778-0885 or sbogle@rpc-nh.org.