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 NEWS AND HAPPENINGS ...
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The illustration above shows the redesign of Main Street from two lanes to one lane as part of Durham's Main Street Complete Streets Design Pilot Program (see below for more informtation)
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The Durham Farmers Market sponsored by Seacoast Growers Association begins on Monday, June 2, 2014, from 2:15 – 6 PM in the Town Office parking lot as was the case last year. Additional information is found within this week’s “Friday Updates.”
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MAIN STREET COMPLETE STREETS INITIATIVE – Pilot Program to Transition Main Street from Two Lanes to One Lane Scheduled to be in place on or around June 10th
The two lane to one lane traffic pilot program for Main Street, also referred to as Durham’s Main Street Complete Streets Initiative, has been discussed widely over the last two months, and the Town has received a great deal of constructive feedback. Part of the reason for describing the plan earlier this spring was to let residents know that the idea was actively being discussed and to enable time to receive suggestions and concerns from residents and business owners.
Generally speaking, feedback has centered on the plausible consequences that people feel may result from the narrowing:
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backups and time lost due to lost lane volume;
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increased danger of head in parking due to the need to back out of those spots (although head in spaces already exist in large numbers on Main Street);
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increased difficulty and danger around merges;
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loss of business downtown due to perceived traffic problems.
Others have pointed out existing difficulties and assume the narrowing will make things worse:
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double parking and loading area backups;
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dangerous crossings at the merge areas;
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large numbers of pedestrians crossing the road at regular intervals slowing down traffic.
It is important to note that there are many misconceptions about traffic flow that are nonetheless widely and deeply held:
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more lanes = better flow/desirable speeds;
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head in parking more dangerous than inexperienced parallel parking;
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pull arounds more frequent on single lane than double lane setups;
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business depends on through travelers to stop and shop.
The Durham Traffic Safety Committee comprised of the public works director, police chief, fire chief, planner, code officer, and a representative from the planning board has weighed the feedback received to date, worked with the Town’s traffic engineering company to modify the plans, and generally believes the perceived annoyances of the new plan are more than balanced by the existing negatives of the current Main Street setup:
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race track lane switching and aggressive driving;
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the complete lack of a bike path;
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the need for additional parking downtown (the new plan will add 19 new parking spaces bringing the total within the project area from 46 to 65);
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the challenge of crossing two fast lanes of traffic when turning left by car or bike from Pettee Brook Lane;
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the challenge of making a left turn by bicycle from Main Street to Madbury Road;
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the delivery trucks on the sidewalk or unexpectedly blocking one entire lane
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the tight and hard to enter parallel parking;
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the dangers of higher speed lane switching and pull arounds to avoid head in parking and parallel parkers;
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the drivers looking left at the intersection with Mill Road with foot traffic on the right;
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The existing back up conditions along Mill Road at Main Street will be lessened.
Durham's experience with the two lane to one lane initiative along Pettee Brook Lane several years ago, despite initial widespread and strongly held skepticism, was ultimately a strongly positive one — a two lane racetrack was made safer for cars, bikes, and pedestrians while providing better parking for businesses. It also made Pettee Brook Lane a pleasant and more comfortable place to walk and linger.
The more intense and complex flows around the Post Office at Main Street and Madbury Road have been more of a balancing act between pros and cons, but even in that high pressure location the Traffic Safety Committee has concluded the intersection is safer for pedestrians, particularly for children walking to school, as well as easier to navigate safely in a motor vehicle.
Balancing the needs of pedestrians, motorists, cyclists, businesses, and through travelers is not an easy task, but the Town is endeavoring to do so nonetheless to help Durham sustain and in some cases recapture the ambiance of a thriving New England village center, whose complete streets bring our community together to enjoy the community’s fine schools, library, parks, downtown places, and businesses.
Many residents have asked, “Who is behind this idea?” The answer is several-fold. Town Council goals aspire to ensure Durham remains a sustainable, resilient, and vibrant community. The Durham Energy Committee has identified that Main Street is not conducive in its present configuration to bicycle travel, nor does it present an optimal pedestrian experience. Durham’s traffic engineering consultants believe the plan developed is workable, and the idea has been vetted by the Traffic Safety Committee. In the end, however, the Administrator has authorized the pilot project to move forward and takes full responsibility for the initiative.
The Main Street Complete Streets Initiative will be carefully evaluated by the Traffic Safety Committee and refined as necessary during the slower summer months and if deemed successful, will continue into the busy fall season with the return of UNH students for additional evaluation. If the plan is ultimately deemed a success, it will be memorialized as part of next summer’s Main Street paving project.
Residents and businesses should expect to see the plan in place by June 10 – 11th, weather permitting.
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Durham resident and land use attorney Malcolm McNeill was keynote speaker at the SRPC's annual meeting held in Madbury on Thursday this week. Courtesy Todd Selig
DURHAM RESIDENT MALCOLM MCNEILL KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT SRPC ANNUAL MEETING IN MADBURY
The Strafford Regional Planning Commission held its annual meeting yesterday, 5/29/14, at the Madbury Town Hall. Durham resident and well-known land use attorney Malcolm McNeill was the keynote speaker. Attorney McNeill gave a helpful account of the development process from a land use attorney who typically represents developers as part of large projects. Attorney McNeill has in the past served as the legal counsel for the towns of Newmarket and Newington. He currently is volunteering as a member of the Durham Master Plan Advisory Committee.
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR (PART-TIME) HIRING PROCESS WELL UNDER WAY
The Town budgeted $50,000 from its UDAG account in 2014 to hire a part-time Economic Development Director.
Economic Development Committee Chair Ute Luxem, Councilor Carden Welsh, Dir. of Planning & Community Development Michael Behrendt, and Administrator Selig narrowed the field of applicants and brought in three individuals for in-person interviews a week ago.
Subsequent to that time, a finalist candidate was brought in for a second round of discussions involving Administrator Selig, Durham Business Association Executive Director Katie Muth, and EDC member Renee Capicchioni Vannata.
Reference checking is now taking place. It is hoped that a new part-time Economic Development Director can be in place by the July/August timeframe
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DESIGN PROCESS FOR UNH OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOL UNDER WAY
Residents interested in learning about the latest progress on the UNH Outdoor Swimming Pool can find out more HERE.
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PEASE AIRPORT NOISE COMPATIBILITY STUDY COMMITTEE – A Contact Number to Report Airplane Noise Concerns or to Learn More about Scheduled Flight Activity
Many years ago a Pease Airport Noise Compatibility Study Committee was formed to address noise issues within and around communities surrounding the airport at Pease. Durham’s representative to the committee is Durham resident Lee Seidel who resides in Canney Farms.
A website has been set up to log noise concerns at http://www.peasedev.org/. Once on the website click on contact us then click on noise complaints located on the left side of the page.
Residents can also leave a message on the noise line at 603-436-6333 to report concerns.
Pease also has a recorded line that the public can call to receive information on the daily transient activity scheduled at the airport. The scheduled transient activity number is 603-433-0032.
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Courtesy Todd Selig
Above, Beverly Burrows throws a wreath into Mill Pond during the 2014 Memorial Day Parade. Below, Detective Sgt. Frank Daly, Beverly Burrows, and Barbara Langley stand in silence during playing of taps.
Courtesy Andrea Bodo
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FREE WOOD CHIPS
The Department of Public Works has left two dump truck loads of wood chips at the vacant lot on the left hand side of Woodridge Road, about two hundred yards from Mill Road. Please help yourself.
Woodchips are also available for residents at the Raymond A. LaRoche Transfer Station and Recycling Center on Durham Point Road.
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Front Row: Administrative Assistant Jen Johnson; Officer Katie Bolton; School Resource Officer Holly Malasky and Sgt. Kathryn Mone
Back Row: Officers CJ Young, David Skelly, John Lavoie and Nick Glowacki
NEW HAMPSHIRE SPECIAL OLYMPICS COMES TO DURHAM
Residents will note that the annual Summer Special Olympics occurs this weekend starting Friday, May 30th and Saturday, May 31st. The event kicks off with police officers from across New Hampshire running with torches to Durham. They will begin arriving in Durham around 11AM and will partake of a barbecue hosted at the Durham Police Department. This is the 45th State Summer Games held at the University of New Hampshire. Athletes will compete in Aquatics, Athletics (Track & Field), Bocce, and Equestrian events. Over 950 athletes took part in last year’s 2013 Summer Games and this year’s events expect to see even more participation this year!
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ACADEMIC YEAR ARREST DATA CONCLUDED
Arrest data in Durham is very unique and deserves a more detailed explanation due to the number of police agencies operating in Durham (UNH Police, State Police, State Liquor Enforcement and Durham Police) as well as the influx of student aged visitors.
The Durham Police monitor all of the statistical arrest data from these agencies in three categories: by weekly activity, secondly by the UNH academic year and finally, by the calendar year mirroring the Town’s financial budget. Each category allows for a better understanding of the demands facing the department during these periods.
Demographical information of those arrested in Durham, i.e., does the person attend UNH or not is determined after the arrest when names of those arrested are sent to the University.
Historically the statistical range of students versus non-students has remained in the 60/40 range. This academic year (2013/14) arrest data was slightly higher for students with the final percentage at 64% UNH student and 36% non-student.
With the academic year ended, the chart below visually depicts the end of the academic year since 2005. While this year’s data is 4% higher than the next highest year and a staggering 31% higher than the lowest year, ironically that occurred last year in 2013, there is no consistency that points to a trend...as yet!
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Mildred’s Drumlin Farm is bringing delicious head lettuce to Opening Day in Durham. Courtesy SGA
DURHAM FARMERS' MARKET OPENS ON MONDAY - JUNE 2ND!
Monday, June 2nd is Opening Day for the Durham Farmers’ Market, which runs from 2:15-6pm every week – rain or shine – until October 6th. The market is located in the parking lot behind the Durham Town Offices at 15 Newmarket Road.
Opening Day in Durham features the following vendors and guests:
Coppal House Farm * Cracked An Egg Farm * Cultural Homestay International
* Forty Five Market Street Bakery and Cafe * Grace Walters Naturals * Leaven Beer And Bread House * Mckenzie’s Farm * Mildred’s Drumlin Farm * Moriarty’s Greenhouse * Shagbark Farms * Soothey Designs * Sugarmomma’s Maple Farm * Wake Robin Farm * White Cedar Farm * Winnicut River Farm
Find out more about these and other Durham vendors on the SGA website Durham Market page.
Join SGA on Opening Day to get some seeds started! Thanks to the Durham Agricultural Commission, there will be a seed planting table at market on Monday. Learn about different kinds of seeds and try your hand at making tiny seed planting pots out of newspaper. Plant easy growing vegetable and flower seeds to take home, watch sprout, and transfer into your own garden.
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Mechanical rough-ins continue at the new Town hall site this week. This photo is the supply and return duct work for heating/air conditioning to the Town Council meeting room. Courtesy Craig Stevens
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SUMMER TIPS FOR DURHAM PET OWNERS
When enjoying the warm weather of spring and summer, don’t forget to take steps to help protect your pet against fleas and ticks. Even though the past winter was cold and long, ticks and fleas have found ways to make it through. They continue to increase their numbers and the potential disease risks they pose to pets and people are on the rise.
Doctors David and Michelle Harriton are longtime family residents of the Town of Durham. They also own The Animal Hospital of Barrington. They have provided some useful information on ways to try and minimize the opportunities for flea and tick contact with your pet. To view the information, click HERE.
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ORMS students pruned and trimmed the rain garden at the Durham Public Library during its 2nd annual Service Palooza. Courtesy DPW
OYSTER RIVER MIDDLE SCHOOL 2ND ANNUAL SERVICE PALOOZA 2014
Various groups of 5th -8th graders from the Oyster River Middle School participated in the 2nd Annual Service Palooza day on Tuesday May 27, 2014. Two of the many important projects around town and the community that were completed include pruning and trimming at the Library Rain Garden and stenciling of catch basins around the Faculty Drive neighborhood.
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FOSS FARM WATER TANK REHABILITATION PROJECT GETS UNDERWAY
As part of the Foss Farm Water Tank Rehabilitation project, the Water Division will start drawing down the water level in the Foss Farm Tank starting Tuesday May 27th. This is in preparation for completely emptying the tank so the painting contractor can begin their work of repainting both the tank’s interior and exterior surfaces beginning Monday June 9th, 2014. Water pressure in the UNH/Durham Water System will continue to be maintained using the Edgewood Road Water Tank and the Beech Hill Water tank while the Foss Farm Water Tank is offline for the duration of the project, which is schedule to be completed by the third week of August. Questions can be directed to Durham Public Works at 603-868-5578.
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Chris Hall’s Oyster River Middle School fifth grade class joined three members of the Garden Steering Committee in the Community Garden at Wagon Hill for an opportunity to ask questions about the garden and gardening and a tour of the garden. The morning activity concluded with a seed identification activity. This is part of a larger project at Wagon Hill, the Wagon Hill Interpretive Trail, which is in progress by these and other ORMS students. Courtesy Katherine Morgan
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THE LATEST PRODUCTIONS FROM DCAT STUDIOS
Planning Board member David Williams (right), along with DCAT 22 Studios, recorded the first episode of “Town Conversations: Change or Be Changed” featuring Administrator Todd Selig. Please check the DCAT schedule for a full description of the show along with the replay times. Courtesy Craig Stevens
“Town Conversations: Change or Be Changed”, Saturday & Sunday @9:00 AM and 6:00 PM - Run time: 49:00
Join your host David Williams as he chats with interesting people in our community, this is the first in a series of conversations about Our Town. The premier episode has David in frank conversation with Durham Town Administrator Todd Selig, listen as Administrator Selig draws a picture of the challenges and opportunities facing Durham. Periodically, Town Conversations invite a clearer understanding of who we are as a Town, how we arrived at where we are, and what direction(s) we might go in the future. Facilitated by David Williams, Planning Board Secretary. Questions may be referred to David via email, home14@comcast.net. This program is also available Town’s On Demand site.
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Chief Kurz: Community Discussion Regarding Drugs in our Schools, Saturday & Sunday @ 4:30 PM - Run time: 1:12
Join Durham Police Chief David Kurz & School Resource Officer Holly Malasky as they discuss the current situation of drugs in our schools and what we can do as parents, community members to reduce drug use in our community. Sponsored by ORCSD Cross School Committee Parent Group. This video is also available on our On Demand site.
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If you’ve walked or driven by the new Town Hall, you might be wondering what is going on inside. This is your chance to take a brief video tour through the building. Join DCAT Coordinator, Craig Stevens as he walks you quickly through our new Town Hall. Please watch your step! This video is only available on the our On Demand site. Click on the DCAT Studios file. Run time: :5:50
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DCAT 22 Talent Search
Durham Cable Access TV is looking for one or two on air talent to help with occasional video projects. No experience is necessary. You must; have knowledge of Durham (local resident is ideal), good with people, entertaining, witty, comfortable in front of a camera, have the ability to work without a script, willing to work for free (yes, free), and be at least 18 years of age. DCAT is interested in talent from all age groups. Please contact DCAT Coordinator, Craig Stevens: dcat@ci.durham.nh.us or 868-5571.
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These videos are also available for viewing on the Town’s On Demand site.
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MEETINGS: SCHEDULE AND VIDEO ON DEMAND
The following public meetings are scheduled for the coming week All meetings begin at 7:00 PM and are held in the Council chambers at the Durham Town Hall unless otherwise indicated below.
Town Council - Monday, June 2, 2014. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.
Historic District Commission - Thursday, June 5, 2014. To view an agenda and other information, click HERE.
All meetings recorded on DCAT are available on DVD at the Durham Public Library for checkout and viewing.
VIDEO ON DEMAND: Meetings can also be viewed via Video on Demand. Interested viewers can access the streaming site from the Town’s website at http://ci.durham.nh.us/ by clicking the DCAT on demand logo, or directly at http://dcat.pegcentral.com/.
Durham Public Library Board of Trustees meeting schedule, please click HERE.
DCAT Programming Schedule, please click HERE.
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UNH SUMMER CAMPS
There are still openings in some UNH summer youth programs:
SYMS (Summer Youth Music School) – deadline June 15
Art Camps (some sessions are full)
Writer’s Academy (some sessions are full)
Athletic Camps (some sports are full)
Camp Wildcat (limited spots in Session II only)
NH 4-H Teen Conference
Future Leaders Institute – deadline June 7
Project SMART (Science Institute)
Sailing and Kayaking at Mendums Pond
Theatre & Dance (some programs are full)
Aquatics programs (swim lessons)
Online programs – Reading, Writing and Storytelling with Harry Potter
and Investigating Homicide
Visit the summer youth program website at http://www.unh.edu/youth-programs/ for more information and to register today!
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PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Durham Parks and Recreation, its Director and Committee, strive to offer a wide range of quality programs, parks, and facilities that encourage all community members to participate in healthy, fun, and enriching activities. Together, they celebrate the essential role public recreation plays in fostering a cohesive and vibrant community.
R.E.A.C.H. Summer Camp 2014 - Don’t miss out! It’s not too late to sign up for the following camps:
1Ž2 Day Ropes Course & Leadership Skills (Browne Center)
ARTastic
Attitash Mountain Adventure (Attitash)
Broadway Stars
Outdoor Experience
Kayaking and Overnight Camping (Wagon Hill Farm)
Mad Science – Mad Machines & Crazy Contraptions
Outdoor Rock Climbing & Rappelling (Pawtuckaway State Park)
The Hunger Games – Archery
Unlikely Sports
Water Country
View the full camp schedule HERE
On The Go!: Adventure Trips for Active Adults (60+) – NEW!
Ready to get UP and GO? Find out how HERE.
Fitness for Life: View our weekly calendar and class descriptions HERE!
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Save the Date:
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Camp R.E.A.C.H. – 7/14 – 8/22
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Music by the Bay Summer Concert Series – August
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Durham Day – Saturday, Sept. 27th
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COMMUNITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
SAVE THE DATE: 2nd Annual Durham Farm Day, Saturday, August 16th, 10am-5pm. Organized by the Durham Agricultural Commission.
Growing Places Kick Off the Summer FREE Community Event, Saturday May 31, 2014, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Lee site at 56 Pinkham Road, Lee. Growing Places beach party, or stay the whole time. Children’s activities including sand dough and make your own “wave” canvas bag. Activities geared towards children ages 2-5 but ALL are welcome to come and play. Bring family and friends. More information HERE.
Durham Farmers' Market - Opens Monday, Jun 2, 2014. Every Monday from 2:15 - 6:00 PM at the Durham Town Hall
Healthy UNH Celebrates Walk NH Week 2014, Wednesday, Jun 4, 2014 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM beginning and ending at the UNH Whittemore Center Arena. The walk is for three miles or less and is designed for people of all abilities. Inclement weather: walk will be held on the concourse of the Whittemore Arena. To register for the walk, click HERE.
Bobcat Bolt 5K Run/Walk benefiting the ORHS Josh & Nate Hary Awards, Saturday, Jun 21, 2014, 9AM, ORHS ($25 entry). 10:15AM Kids Fun Run ($5 entry). Register HERE.
Oyster River Festival, Saturday, Jun 21, 2014, 9AM - 1:30PM, ORHS. Free musicconcert featuring ORMS Jazz Band & Rockspring (local rock-grass band). Free kids activities, Festival BBQ, local business exhibitors. Proceeds benefit OR youth initiatives. More information HERE.
Fundraiser/Mixer Hosted by the Oyster River Alumni Association, Saturday, Jun 21, 2014, 8 - 11 PM, Libby's Bar & Grill. Open to the public. Live music and free appetizers. Cash Bar. $10 suggested at the door. Donation benefits the ORAA Scholarship for Oyster River Community Organizing and the Oyster River Mini Grant Initiative. More information HERE.
Vacation Bible School, Community Church of Durham, UCC - Sunday, June 22nd 10:00-11:30 am; Monday to Thursday; June 23rd-26th, 9:00 am -12:00 noon. Each day will include crafts, Bible stories, and activities focusing on environmental themes. Open to all community children. For more information contact Paula Norbert, 603-868-1230 or email cedirector@CCDurham.org.
Garden Plots Available at Saint George's Episcopal Church. Four organic 4'x4' raised beds and one organic 4'x8' raised bed available. Use fee (reimbursement for town water) is $10 for a 4'x4' bed and $20 for a 4'x8' bed. For more information contact Laura Williford at stgeorgesgardens@comcast.net or the church office at 603-868-2785.
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DURHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
Browse through historic New Hampshire Troubadour magazines at the Durham Public Library. They are available in the Heritage Room. Courtesy DPL
Thanks to the Durham Fire Department for another fun visit to storytime this week!
Baby Lap-Sit, Sat. May 31st, 10:30 a.m. (for ages 2 & under with their care-givers) – Join us! We read stories, do finger plays, sing songs and socialize afterwards. You will receive a ring with finger plays to do at home.
Summertime Tea, Sat. May 31st, 2:00-4:00 p.m. - Summertime... and the living was easy for many at the turn of the last century. The beaches offered amusements for both the rich and poor alike. People enjoyed dancing, vaudeville shows, bandstand concerts, the latest rides and other entertainments. Join Mrs. Gordon as she gives you a first hand account of what it was like to spend a day at the beach in 1908.
Oyster River Knitters, Tues. June 3rd, 7:00-9:30 p.m. - Calling all knitters (and crocheters!) Come join your fellow fiber friends for an evening of knitting and chatting from 7-9:30. All experience levels welcome. Contact Heather Anderson (hca@iconklin.com) with any questions.
Libros Lovers, High School Book Group, Weds. June 4th, 2:45-4:00 p.m. – This month’s book is “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green. Ruth Wharton MacDonald is the facilitator. Pizza is served. Books are available at the library and all are welcome!
Acoustic Open Mic Night, Weds. June 4th, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Come and share your talents. Steve Brennan is the host.
Alzheimer’s Café, Friday June 6th, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Join us!
Summer Reading Registration, “Fizz, Boom, Read!” begins Mon. June 9th. Our 5 week program will run from June 23rd through July 25th. Prizes, performers (science and magic), science experiments, 3-D printers, open mic night, animals, storytimes, xbox night, writing group, children’s museum, games. More details coming soon! Ages 12 & under and all are welcome!
Helping a New England Native: The New England Cottontail Rabbit, Mon. June 9th 7:00-9:30 p.m. Young forests provide essential homes for a large variety of native wildlife and we are losing both at a rapid rate in New Hampshire. Among the species that are suffering is the New England cottontail, the region’s only native rabbit. We can take action to reverse the decline. Come learn about upcoming efforts on nearby NH Fish & Game lands to provide habitat for New England cottontails and nearly 65 other young forest wildlife.
McGregor Memorial EMS First Aid Course, Tues. June 10th, 6:00-8:00 p.m. - Visit cprsafe.org for information and to register. Fee is $20.00
McGregor Memorial EMS CPR Course, Tues. June 17th, 6:00-8:00 p.m. - Visit cprsafe.org for information and to register. Fee is $20.00
Local Author Visit, Catherine Geiger, Author of “The Witch Market”, Thurs. June 19th, 7:00-8:00 pm. Join us as she talks about her new book "The Witch Market". Catherine's book will be available for purchase and signing.
Patch Club! The Patch Club ends on May 31st for the year. Hang onto your bookmarks and bring them back on Sept. 1st.
Join the Durham Public Library Birthday Book Club. Celebrate a child’s birthday in a unique way with a gift of a book to the library. Talk to the children’s librarian at the children’s desk for more details.
Visit the DPL website www.durhampubliclibrary.org for more information.
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WEEKLY ARREST REPORT
*Academic year commences the third week of August through graduation at UNH in May.
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FROM "HISTORY IN AN OYSTERSHELL - A BRIEF HISTORY OF DURHAM, NH, 1600 - 1976 written by Philip A. Wilcox and members of the Durham Historic Association
1789 - To supplying Philip Crommet, one of the poor, being for pasturing and shacking his cow; to hay sufficient to winter cow and hauling same to his hovel: 23 ft. wood supply; supplies and medicines; for coffin and digging grave. The family was a Town charge through 1817.
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