NH 101 Detour and Underpass
| Organizational note |
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| This initiative is a portion of the Amherst South-02 segment of the Baboosic Greenway regional project. |
The NH 101 highway embankment presents a significant challenge to the Baboosic Greenway's vision of a contiguous trail network. This major roadway completely bisects the existing rail bed within the Amherst South-02 segment, disrupting direct access and connectivity. The "NH 101 Detour and Underpass" project is designed to address this barrier, offering both temporary and permanent solutions to restore and enhance trail continuity.
Temporary Solution
While the permanent resolution of the NH 101 barrier is being planned, an interim solution is necessary to maintain connectivity along the Baboosic Greenway. The proposed temporary detour will deviate from the original rail bed to the east, closely following the NH 101 embankment. This path would then pass beneath the existing NH 101 bridge that spans Beaver Brook and Boston Post Rd.
Under the NH 101 bridge that spans Beaver Brook and Boston Post Rd
Constructing this detour involves building a trail and possibly a boardwalk to navigate the steep slopes of the NH 101 embankment. This interim path will ensure that trail users can still enjoy a connected route, albeit slightly indirect, until the permanent underpass can be completed. This solution acknowledges the complexities and extended timeframe in achieving the long-term goal but ensures that the community and trail users continue to benefit from the Greenway.
Permanent Solution
The ultimate resolution to the NH 101 barrier involves the construction of a 12' x 12' box culvert through the highway embankment as part of the Amherst South-02 segment. This permanent solution is aimed at making the rail bed contiguous once again, ensuring that the trail can accommodate all modes of use, including pedestrians, cyclists, equestrians, as well as smaller emergency and maintenance vehicles.
Due to the scale and cost of this project, significant planning, external funding, and strategic timing with scheduled NH 101 roadwork are required to optimize cost efficiencies. The proposed box culvert is not only a functional necessity but also a critical infrastructural enhancement that will restore the Greenway's integrity and functionality. By aligning this project with broader highway maintenance or upgrade schedules, the community can achieve cost-effective integration and minimal disruption.