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Bow Selectboard backs a broadly worded letter supporting toll changes to fund Bow–Concord widening
Summary
The Bow Selectboard voted Oct. 14 to send a letter supporting state toll‑rate changes that, if adopted, would help fund a 10‑year plan including the Bow–Concord (Exit 193/Exit 1) widening; the board emphasized resident discounts/commuter protections and left technical specifics to the DOT and legislature.
The Bow Selectboard voted Oct. 14 to send a letter urging state leaders to consider toll‑revenue options that would restore funding for a 10‑year plan covering the Bow–Concord widening and related interchange improvements.
During a lengthy discussion and public comment period, business owner Ryan Audley explained the state turnpike funding structure and said the New Hampshire Department of Transportation’s proposal includes raising tolls (an example discussed was roughly a $1 increase at some locations) while preserving discounts for in‑state EZPass holders. Audley said the turnpike is funded by toll revenues and that federal highway funds cannot be used to pay for these toll‑road projects.
Selectman Flanagan moved a broadly worded motion directing staff to draft a letter supporting toll‑rate changes that would fund a 10‑year plan for Exit 1/I‑93 and the Bow–Concord corridor while seeking net neutrality for New Hampshire EZPass account holders. The motion, seconded and carried, asked that the language be revenue‑neutral for residents through discounts or commuter subscription options rather than imposing disproportionate burdens on local drivers.
Board members said they were reluctant to adopt highly specific toll figures at the meeting but reached unanimous support for a statement that signals the town’s desire to see the project reinstated and funded. Selectboard members and the public raised tradeoffs including the estimated scale of revenue, potential commuter subscriptions and differential rates by vehicle class.
The board’s action was limited to a letter of support; the decision does not change local policy or authorize funding. Board members said they expect the town’s letter to be forwarded to the Executive Council and state leaders and noted that DOT, the legislature and the Executive Council retain authority over any toll changes and the 10‑year plan.
What happens next: Staff will prepare the letter consistent with the motion; the board recorded its vote and public comments during the Oct. 14 meeting.
