Yes, as you may have guessed, we have more than a passing interest in these proposals. We live on Range Road, next
to the old entrance to Industrial Road. We have an historic home that we have poured our hearts into, nevermind countless
hours and money. We were recently surprised to find out that our house was not built in 1836 as we were told when we
bought it more than eight years ago, but in 1777! We have been in contact with the State of New Hampshire since we bought
this house, fully aware of the 111 project. The redirection of 111 has decreased the traffic in front of our house,
and was worth the wait.
Now, with the inclusion of the lot next to us (13-A-191), we have been closely studying this whole proposal. My
husband works in real estate development in Boston, so we are certainly not anti-development. It doesn't seem to make
sense to change the zoning on "our" side of 111, just to reach what looks to be less than five acres remaining of a land locked
Limited Industrial parcel. The acerage alone, when you consider restrictions on square footage based on lot size,
and the requirements for parking spaces for commercial space, just does not make sense. In fact, THAT would make a great
residential lot or two. Great views, including sunsets.
The land to the north of 111 seems ripe for some real planning and development. I pay taxes, I have kids entering
the Windham school system, and I certainly appreciate the police, fire, library and recreation services in town (only some
of the many benefits our taxes cover). With the potential benefit of development of that land, currently in use and
not, it would seem to warrant a slower hand and careful study. The State hasn't even finished the project! 111
still needs to be moved in front of Delahuty's and the 90-degree turn on Range Road by the new intersection will be adjusted
by the state to be more user-friendly and more safe. Presumably the State won't be ready to sell off parcels until they
are done with construction and have a full appreciation of what land will be reserved to protect their investment.
What is the big rush? Yeah, I know the recommendation is "in line with the Master Plan", but the situation has
changed since the Master Plan was designed. Infact, until the project is completed between McDonald's and the new Roulston
Road intersection, we won't have a full appreciation of the impact.
Vote "NO" on Citizen Petition #6 and Zoning Amendment #1 to call for further study into the best use for this resource.
