Portsmouth traffic circle project faces critical vote as community rallies for funding support

The Board of Selectmen meeting held on December 4, 2024, in Greenland, New Hampshire, focused on critical infrastructure projects and the upcoming vote that could significantly impact local transportation planning. A key discussion point was the prioritization of funding for various projects by the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), particularly concerning the Portsmouth traffic circle and the urgent need for improvements to local bridges.

During the meeting, officials expressed concerns about how project funding is allocated, noting that while some projects, like the Portsmouth traffic circle, have substantial price tags—up to $15 million—funding is often limited, leading to delays and prioritization of other projects, such as ongoing work in Hampton. The MPO's decision-making process was highlighted, with officials explaining that projects can be broken down into phases, allowing for partial funding and execution over time.

A significant vote is scheduled in two weeks, which will determine whether the proposed projects will advance to the next stage of planning. The Transportation Advisory Committee has already shown unanimous support for the recommendations, but the outcome remains uncertain as it will ultimately require approval from the State Coordinating Office (SCO).

Residents were encouraged to attend the upcoming RPC meeting on December 13 at the town hall to advocate for the projects. Officials emphasized the importance of community presence and support, suggesting that residents should prepare talking points to highlight the urgency of the bridge improvements, particularly in light of past incidents that have raised safety concerns.

The meeting also touched on broader issues of traffic safety in the region, with discussions about recent accidents and the need for better infrastructure to support safe travel. The urgency of addressing these infrastructure needs was underscored by comparisons to other towns facing similar challenges.

In conclusion, the Board of Selectmen is actively seeking community engagement to ensure that critical infrastructure projects receive the attention and funding they require, with the next steps hinging on the outcomes of upcoming votes and meetings.