Planning board reviews Town Center Site Plan edits; Bachand proposes wider rail-trail street buffer

Jason Bachand and Jennifer Rowden reviewed Appendix B draft language to support Town Center revitalization goals, covering parking, building aesthetics, landscaping, mobility enhancements, and recreational opportunities. Rowden noted the Master Plan, PlanNH charrette, and a zoning audit all recommended changes that could be implemented through Site Plan and Subdivision Regulations. She and staff recommended considering timing after Town Meeting 2027 because pending warrant articles and the end of the 2026 NH legislative session might affect regulatory direction.

Bachand proposed changing the Street Design & Construction Standards applicability from within one-quarter mile to within one-half mile of the NH Seacoast Greenway Rail-Trail to broaden the standard’s reach in the downtown area. The Board discussed street landscaping maintenance and agreed the developer would be responsible for newly planted trees until town acceptance of the road or a developer/HOA if the road remains private. The board also reviewed Access & Roadway Design elements (pedestrian access, bike parking, public transit) and reached consensus not to pursue the proposed public-transit regulatory language at this time.