MANCHESTER, NH – A proposal that would reconfigure a portion of Hanover Street known as the Theatre Block received tacit approval from the Manchester Board of Mayor and Aldermen during their April 7 meeting after Alderman At-Large Dan O’Neil withdrew his request to reconsider the motion that approved the proposal at the board’s previous meeting.
The reconfiguration, intended to increase pedestrian safety, sought to shift traffic on Hanover Street from Elm Street to Chestnut Street through a series of sidewalk modifications, largely paid for with federal grants.
Public meetings on the proposal were held in April, August and November of 2025 as well as meetings with the downtown business community before concerns were raised in February 2026 that put a halt on the proposal’s potential approval.
O’Neil noted information from recent conversations between the Palace Theatre, Manchester Department of Public Works Deputy Director Owen Friend-Gray and other stakeholders that provided additional information and consultation on the proposal as the primary reason behind his decision to withdraw his motion.
The area is located within Ward 3, which encompasses much of the downtown area. Ward 1 Alderman Bryce Kaw-uh praised Ward 3 Alderman Dana Dexter for his efforts to help the proposal become a reality.
“I want to commend Alderman Dexter on his diligent work behind the scenes. He worked tirelessly to bring people together and identify a solution for Hanover Street that will strike the right balance for all involved.”
