HB1294

Dear Chairman Walsh and Honorable Members of the House Transportation Committee: My name is Doug Marino, I am proud to serve as a member of the Brentwood Planning Board. I appreciate the opportunity to speak to you today in support of House Bill 1294-FN. The Brentwood Planning Board voted unanimously to endorse this important piece of public safety legislation, which would set the speed limit in the Brentwood section of 125 to 45mph. The Brentwood Selectboard has also endorsed this very important bill. As it currently stands, the Brentwood section of Route 125 is hazardous to motorists and pedestrians who live in Brentwood, as well as our friends and neighbors who come to visit or pass through our town. Sadly, we have had multiple fatalities on Rt. 125. And while there are several improvements that can be made, House Bill 1294-FN will go a long way in making this highway safer for Granite Staters. Safety audits have been conducted by DOT, and the department has identified that this is a serious safety issue. The Brentwood Planning Board conducted a survey of residents to solicit feedback on our Master Plan. Many respondents identified safety on Rt. 125 as a major concern for them. In the portions of 125 where the speed limit is 55mph, many drivers go as fast as 65 or even 70mph. House Bill 1294-FN will create consistency throughout the Brentwood section of 125, and set the speed limit at a much more reasonable rate. It is also important to note that as Route 125 continues to be developed, traffic could increase. Particularly given the passage of HB 631, increased development could be forthcoming. However, we still don’t have adequate turning lanes. This prospect makes HB 1294-FN increasingly important for the future of safety of motorists and pedestrians in Brentwood. HB 1294-FN represents a big step in the right direction as we work to make Route 125 safer. I respectfully ask the committee to give this bill a favorable recommendation of “ought to pass,” and to support its passage in the House. Thank you for your consideration. Best Wishes, Doug Marino Member Brentwood Planning Board 603-686-3283 dmarino@brentwoodnh.gov