Town of Hampton - Lane Memorial Library

- HAMPTON BEACH AREA COMMISSION -
The Hampton Beach Area Commission (HBAC) was established in 2003 by the New Hampshire
legislature for the purpose of providing consultation and advice to the Town of Hampton and to state
agencies to accomplish the goals set out in the 50-year Hampton Beach Master Plan.
In 2004, HBAC conducted a series of “visioning workshops” to start the transition from plan to
preliminary design. The product of these sessions was the basis for the $12 million infrastructure
improvement which was implemented by the Town. In 2005, HBAC’s subcommittees began
developing goals for community development, beachscape, zoning and redevelopment, and
transportation and parking.
In 2006, HBAC activities have transitioned from a planning to an implementation mode. The DOT
bridge design team briefed HBAC in January on plans to rehab the Hampton River Bridge. When
HBAC expressed a strong preference for replacement of the bridge, DOT returned in September with
new options. HBAC recommended, and Selectmen chose, the option that allows time to arrange plans
and funding for a replacement bridge. State Rep. Nancy Stiles has introduced legislation to fund the
State portion of the replacement cost, and discussions are ongoing with DOT regarding other
necessary arrangements.
A public hearing was held in March to get ideas from the public as to what they would like to see
included in future plans and development. The majority of the input pertained to traffic, parking and
support for replacing the bridge. In April, HBAC voted to endorse the proposal by the non-profit
“Friends of the Earth, Sea and Space Center” to locate a year-round educational and recreational
facility at the Hampton Beach State Park area. Member organizations and the Board of Selectmen
have given their support to the concept also.
In May, input was provided to the Board of Selectmen in support of the original plan for one-sided
parking on lettered streets. In September, input was provided to the O’Dell Commission in support of
DRED’s proposed SB5 budget and plan for $10 million in improvements to Hampton Beach State
Park properties. In November, a public hearing was conducted on several proposed beach zoning
changes. HBAC’s resulting recommendations were forwarded to the Planning Board for its
consideration in drawing up proposed zoning changes for the 2007 warrant.
Ongoing projects include development of a “design guidelines booklet” containing a variety of
material, color, texture and landscaping options to help developers design buildings which would
better blend with the Victorian “Seacoast Village” theme that has been identified as preferred for
future construction. Attractive flower beds have been planted in the beach area by a group of Precinct
volunteers as part of beach beautification efforts.
HBAC members have proven themselves to be objective, highly motivated, conscientious and
committed in trying to improve Hampton Beach according to the Master Plan.
Respectfully submitted,
Frederick C. Rice, Chairman
Hampton Beach Area Commission
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