The Walnut Oval project in Nashua, New Hampshire, is a significant urban infrastructure initiative aimed at improving traffic flow, pedestrian and bicycle access, and overall connectivity to downtown Nashua. This project addresses the challenges posed by the existing large diameter circular intersection and aims to create a more efficient and safer environment for all modes of travel.

Section of roadway on the Walnut Oval in Nashua. Understanding the Challenges

Walnut Oval is located on the west side of downtown Nashua and serves as a critical connection point for traffic coming from Veterans Memorial Parkway. The Parkway was intended to provide an alternative route to downtown Nashua, alleviating congestion on Main Street. However, the current configuration of Walnut Oval acts as barrier and has created safety concerns and inefficiencies for both vehicles and non-motorized users.

Our Vision for a Safer, Smarter Oval

The primary goal of the Walnut Oval project is to simplify the intersection and improve connectivity for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Key objectives include:

  • Reducing the number of lanes to create space for on-street bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and green spaces.
  • Enhancing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient access through the intersection.
  • Improving sightlines and reducing confusion for drivers by simplifying the circulation pattern.
  • Creating recreational opportunities with a shared-use path in the center of the Oval.

Caption: A design option that includes pedestrian and bicycle accommodation along with improved safety measures for vehicles.

Navigating Complex Needs

The project faces several design challenges, including:

  • Balancing the needs of vehicular traffic with pedestrian and bicycle accommodations.
  • Coordinating with existing businesses and residential complexes to ensure their parking and access needs are met.
  • Managing the schedule demands associated with earmarked congressional funding, which requires certain portions of the project to be obligated by September.

Rendering of the plan for the Walnut Oval. Innovation at the Roadblocks

To address these challenges, the project team has proposed several innovative solutions:

  • Reversing some of the one-way roadways to provide more direct routes to and from downtown Nashua.
  • Implementing a compact roundabout design that allows large vehicles to track over the center, reducing the footprint and accommodating traffic flow.
  • Designing the center of the Oval as a shared-use path that can be used for jogging and other recreational activities.

Collaborating with the Community

The project has involved extensive community engagement, including workshops where residents and local businesses could provide input on the design. This feedback has been incorporated into the Engineering Study and ongoing Preliminary Design efforts to ensure the project meets the needs of the community.

We’re Passionate about Traffic Solutions

The Walnut Oval project represents a significant step forward in improving urban infrastructure in Nashua. By addressing the challenges of the existing intersection and incorporating innovative design solutions, the project aims to create a safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable environment for all users. We have traffic professionals on our team that are passionate about making spaces safer while also incorporating effective and efficient designs. Reach out to me if you have questions about your community’s infrastructure!