This bill introduces an expedited driveway permitting process specifically for major entrances associated with residential developments of 20 units or more. It amends RSA 236:13 by adding a new paragraph (IV-b) that mandates the commissioner of the Department of Transportation to revise existing policies to allow for this expedited process, which must be completed within 60 business days following the approval of a traffic impact study. Applicants opting for this expedited service will be required to pay a non-refundable permit fee of $120 per unit, with the possibility of fee adjustments by the commissioner with the governor and council's approval. Additionally, applicants must pay a retainer for third-party professional engineering reviews, with any unused funds refunded within 120 days of permit issuance.

The bill also establishes a classified position of business operations specialist within the Department of Transportation to oversee the expedited permitting process. While the bill does not allocate funding or authorize new positions, it is projected to incur significant expenditures, estimated at $629,000 in FY 2026, increasing to $669,000 by FY 2028. The Department anticipates needing additional engineering staff to manage the increased workload from the expedited permitting process, which is expected to handle around 100 major traffic generator applications annually.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 236:13
As Amended by the Senate: 236:13