Stefanie Casella, data collection and analysis assistance, assessing a sidewalk in Rochester. (
SRPC Photo)
Planning
On Thursday, Jun. 13, Kyle Pimentaljoined Dan Bourdeau of Geosyntec Consultants at the Town of Lee’s Planning Board meeting to present an update of theLee Floodplain study. This project is an ongoing effort to develop inundation maps for the Lamprey, Little, North, and Oyster rivers in Lee. The maps use more accurate topographic and land use data, as well as revised stream flow data based on projected increases in precipitation associated with climate change.
The purpose of the meeting was to provide board members with an update on progress to date and next steps. Kyle opened the presentation by reviewing the project background and the overall timeline of previous work. Dan followed with a summary of modeling methods and results. After the presentation, board members reviewed a set of large-scale maps to compare existing flood areas with the revised maps showing projected future flood conditions. Next steps include finalizing revisions to the town’s existing floodplain ordinance, which will go to the voters next March for adoption.
A special thank you goes out to Planning Board Chair, Robert Smith, who shared a home-made strawberry rhubarb pie with everyone in attendance. It was delicious!
To learn more contact Kyle Pimental at 603-994-3500.
On Wednesday, June 12 Stefanie Casella attended pedestrian infrastructure training offered by the Technology Transfer Center. This training prepares data collection staff for field work as part of the Statewide Asset Data Exchanges System (SADES), which also include stream crossings, culverts, and road surface management systems (RSMS).
SRPC data collection staff will use what they learned at the training to administer walking surveys designed to assess the condition and ADA compliance of sidewalks, crosswalks, and curb ramps. Starting in the beginning of July, SRPC staff will complete ongoing pedestrian infrastructure data collection in the City of Rochester.
On Monday, Jun. 10 James Burdin facilitated the Strafford Economic Development District (EDD) monthly brownbag lunch program at the SRPC office. These meeting serve as an economic development round table for the SRPC regional communities.
This month's meeting was particularly special as it was the first time that the new economic development directors from the communities of Rochester and Durham were able to join. Attendees and staffers welcomed Michael Scala and Christine Soutter, respectively. The meeting allowed for Michael and Chris to introduce themselves and get up to speed on discussion the group has been having over the past couple of months. The group also discussed the Metropolitan Transportation Plan survey, asking attendees to share it with their communities and colleagues.
For more information on the Strafford EDD brownbag lunch program contact James Burdin at 603-994-3500.
