Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission

08/25/2026

🎉 Congratulations to the Savannah River National Scenic Byway!

At its August 18 meeting, Anderson County Council proudly proclaimed September 22, 2026, as National Scenic Byway Day in Anderson County!

Designated in 1998, the Savannah River National Scenic Byway stretches 110 miles from Oakway to Clarks Hill, showcasing the incredible beauty of South Carolina’s Freshwater Coast. Along the way are three major lakes and historic dams, welcoming towns and state parks, outstanding outdoor recreation, and the nationally recognized Green Pond Landing and Event Center.

This special designation celebrates not only the scenic, historic, cultural, recreational, archaeological, and natural treasures found along the Byway, but also the dedicated volunteers, organizations, businesses, local governments, and citizens who work to preserve and promote them.

👏 Congratulations to everyone who continues to make the Savannah River National Scenic Byway a source of pride for Anderson County and our region. We encourage residents and visitors alike to get out, explore, and celebrate our beautiful Byway!

08/24/2026

Today in Transportation History, 1923: At Least 5,000 People Show Up to Watch a Five-Year-Old Future Mayor Open a Bridge Between New Hampshire and Maine.

A vertical-lift bridge crossing the Piscataqua River and connecting the city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, with Badger’s Island in the town of Kittery, Maine, was formally inaugurated. This bridge was dedicated to the memory of American soldiers and sailors who had lost their lives during World War I just a few years earlier.

Read more: https://transportationhistory.org/2026/08/17/1923-at-least-5000-people-show-up-to-watch-a-five-year-old-future-mayor-opens-a-bridge-between-new-hampshire-and-maine/

08/21/2026

Great job, Goffstown DPW!

08/18/2026

Branching out Together at Sweeney Park – August 21st from 3-6pm
We know how important trees can be for the health and well-being of our communities. They provide shade, keep the air clean, and make our sidewalks and play spaces more comfortable and appealing!

On August 21, join the Branching out Together event at Sweeney Park to learn more about Manchester’s urban forestry initiative and request a free tree. SNHPC and Manchester Connects will be hosting a Pathways to Play table to gather community input on recreation opportunities in Manchester.
Join us on Friday for free trees, free ice cream, and family-friendly fun!

To learn more and request a free tree, visit https://www.manchesternh.gov/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation/Growing-a-Greener-Healthier-Manchester.

Pathways to Play is supported by the NH Children’s Health Foundation. To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/pathwaystoplay.

08/17/2026

MTA is at Londonderry Old Home Day displaying MTA’s CART service! Londonderry bus service is available Monday through Friday right now! Extended time and service starting September 1, 2026! 🚎

08/15/2026

Join SNHPC at CelebratED as we help students get ready for the school year. Stop by the Pathways to Play table for some snacks and kid-friendly activities, and share your vision for safe and green recreation spaces in Manchester!

CelebratED is a school resource fair for students and families at every school across the city. Meet new community partners, pick up free swag, and celebrate students as they return to school ready and confident!

Aug. 20, 4-7pm, French Hall and Victory Park

For more information about CelebratED, visit https://manchesterproud.org/celebrated/
Pathways to Play is supported by the NH Children’s Health Foundation. To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/pathwaystoplay.

08/14/2026

Seeking Nominations for the James W. Tethers Award!

The James W. Tethers Award is presented in recognition of professionals in the SNHPC region who have made significant contributions to sound community and regional planning above and beyond their professional duty.

Last year’s award recipient was Naomi Bolton!

Submit your James W. Tethers Award nomination here: https://www.snhpc.org/DocumentCenter/View/2741/Tethers-Nomination-form-2026

This award will be presented at our 60th Anniversary Annual Meeting on September 24, 2026.

08/13/2026

Seeking Nominations for the Raymond E. Closson Award!

The Raymond E. Closson Award is presented in recognition of volunteers in the SNHPC region who have made significant contributions to sound community and regional planning and helped foster intermunicipal cooperation and collaboration.

Last year’s award recipient was Barbara Griffin!

Submit your Raymond E. Closson Award nomination here: https://www.snhpc.org/DocumentCenter/View/2740/Closson-Nomination-form-2026

This award will be presented at our 60th Anniversary Annual Meeting on September 24, 2026.

08/13/2026

Plenty of NH Byways to choose from!

📣 Big news for road trip lovers! The National Scenic Byway Association has officially designated September 22 as National Scenic Byway Day. This new annual celebration honors the country's most spectacular roads and the unforgettable journeys they inspire. Mark your calendar and get ready to explore breathtaking landscapes, small towns, and incredible stories found along America's scenic byways.

Where will the road take you on September 22?