Council reclassifies second Kings Highway segment to Class A trail after public testimony

After public testimony and deliberation, the Lebanon City Council voted unanimously on Sept. 6 to reclassify Class 6 Road Number 46 (the segment from Storrs Hill Road easterly toward Daisy Hill and Morse Road) as a Class A municipal trail. The motion—moved by Councilor Ford Burley and seconded by Councilor Fonts—limits permitted travel to foot, skis and snowshoes and prohibits motorized and wheeled vehicles except for abutting owners’ access for existing uses as allowed by RSA 2:31‑A.

Speakers at the public hearing described differences between segment 44 (more walkable) and 46 (overgrown and currently impassable in places). Committee members urged the council to affirm the right‑of‑way status before taking subsequent steps on clearing or trail work. Staff and councilors emphasized that declaring the right‑of‑way and downgrading to trail status does not automatically impose maintenance obligations on the city; any clearing or improvements would require city approval and coordination with abutters. The council asked staff to consider posting signage “as appropriate” after assessing passability and safety.