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Bike-Walk Alliance of NH ==
BWA-NH
Reps meet with representative of Governor John Lynch
Bottom-up and top-down activities underway
Bicycle-pedestrian issues and projects affecting many people in NH plus tourism prompted the BWA-NH to request a meeting with Governor John Lynch to review and take action on three key areas: the Salem-Concord rail trail, NH DOT project coordination and support, and the Safe Routes to School program. Advocacy at local levels does help as indicated by the many emails and letters supporting development of the Salem section of the rail trail. However, a "top down" approach is also necessary to set the policy for the state and to seek funding for viable projects. BWA-NH is attempting to work at all levels for improved bicycle and pedestrian facilities and education. On February 21, three BWA-NH members met with Ms. Alice Chamberlin, Special Assistant for Policy, in the Governor's Executive Chamber. The meeting went well and many notes were taken by Ms. Chamberlin for future action.
Update: In September, BWA-NH learned that Ms. Chamberlin has moved on to another position. We never heard anything back from the February meeting in spite of follow-up emails and a letter. New direct contact with the Governor's Office was sought, and we seem to have found it via speaking with NH First Lady Dr. Susan Lynch on September 25. Dr. Lynch is a staunch supporter of bike-ped programs and is a "roadie" by choice. We never know what will happen next!
