REGIONAL PLANNING
The Lakes Region Master Plan – Update 2026
Project Overview
The Lakes Regional Planning Commission (LRPC) is updating the regional Lakes Region Master Plan. This initiative will serve as a framework to help shape the future of our entire region and reflect our commitment to supporting vibrant, sustainable, and resilient land use that strengthens communities in the region.
What is the Lakes Region Master Plan?
The Lakes Region Master Plan is a
- Forward-looking,
- Long-term,
- Strategic vision and
- Roadmap for the region’s future.
The Lakes Region Master Plan will be a guidance document, not prescriptive. It will reflect the values, priorities, needs, and aspirations of the residents, businesses, and 31 communities throughout the Lakes Region, and ensure their voices and perspectives serve as the foundation of the plan.
Why are we updating The Lakes Region Plan?
Our previous version of a regional plan, The Lakes Region Plan, was published in 2015. As the region has continued to evolve over the last decade, an updated plan will ensure that the region can respond to new challenges and opportunities, ensure that growth and development align with local priorities and needs, and develop a framework for stronger, resilient, and connected communities. Under RSA 36:47 (I), Regional Planning Commissions in New Hampshire are required to prepare a regional plan for development in their region and update it.
What is the project timeline?
How do I get involved?
We need your insights and perspectives to make the Lakes Region Master Plan a robust and complete plan that reflects the priorities and aspirations of the region. The foundation of this plan is informed by the voices of the residents, businesses, local organizations, communities, and other stakeholders. There are several ways to participate and share your input:
- Connect with us at Local Events! We will be attending some local events through fall 2025.
- Give us your thoughts through Surveys! Fill in our online surveys dealing with various topics. Tell us what is
important to you. Visit https://arcg.is/0vT8H40 or scan this QR Code. - Spread the word! Tell your neighbors, city or town representatives, colleagues, and more!
Thank you to all the municipalities who have been able to share this to their website and social media pages. We are still looking for more input. Our region is big! And we want to make sure that this plan update has a fair representation to all our unique municipalities.
Here is breakdown of where our responses are coming from:
Responses Municipalities
15 – 20 Meredith
10 – 15 Laconia
5 – 10 Tuftonboro, Gilford, Alton
2 – 5 Northfield, Moultonborough, Ossipee, Alexandria, Andover, Center Harbor, Gilmanton
1 Danbury, Effingham, Hebron, Sanbornton, Sandwich, Tamworth, Tilton
Let us know how we can help you spread the word!
Questions? Make sure to be in touch! Contact us at gtrefethen@lakesrpc.nh.gov or 603.279.5335.
The Lakes Region Plan
Updated by the Lakes Region Planning Commission, in cooperation with state agencies.
View the full Lakes Region Plan (2015-2020).
Regional Planning
In order to meet the overall vision of serving the Lakes Region, the LRPC relies on planning commissioners and staff to identify and provide many planning services that help communities address their aspirations for a future quality of life that meets or exceeds today’s standards. Through GIS, Master Plans, Hazard Mitigation Plans, Economic Development Analysis, Transportation Plans, Technical Assistance, and Regional Collaboration, there are many opportunities for communities to identify and create local policies, and to implement strategies that achieve established goals. Outreach efforts allow communities to address share problems, and provide an opportunity to learn from one another.
Communities and regions plan to achieve a desired future outcome. The desired future is one which residents believe, once attained, results in a more improved community than had they not planned. Time has shown that planning is a dynamic process. Over time, events and perceptions shape the way good plans are implemented, and success depends on how well the strategies used to implement them are monitored and adapted to changing conditions. In New Hampshire, extensive state and local laws govern land use planning. The regulation of land use development occurs primarily at the local level though the state has oversight in many areas. The regional planning process in New Hampshire is clearly advisory, having no statutory authority to approve or to deny development. A key strength of regional planning then is its advisory nature, a source for objective planning information that will help those looking to effect positive changes in their communities and the state.
Publications
Lakes Region Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy [CEDS] (July 2013)
NH Broadband Mapping & Planning Program
NH Broadband Mapping and Planning Program
New Hampshire Broadband Action Plan (06/30/08)
Lakes Region Broadband Plan (adopted 11/17/14).png){kind=icon}