Merrimack County, NH – Drivers across central New Hampshire should expect increased police presence starting Friday, January 23, 2026, as state and local agencies launch a three-month traffic safety initiative targeting speeding and impaired driving.
According to the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety, the effort—known as the Granite State Safe Roads Initiative—will focus on Route 202 from Bow to Hillsboro and Interstate 89 from Bow to Hopkinton, two high-traffic corridors with a history of serious crashes.
The initiative brings together resources from the New Hampshire State Police, Bow Police Department, Henniker Police Department, Hillsboro Police Department, Hopkinton Police Department, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office. Funding is provided through dedicated highway safety grants.
Authorities say drivers can expect high-visibility patrols, overlapping enforcement shifts, and additional daytime speed enforcement details throughout January, February, and March. The goal is to reduce crashes that result in serious injuries or fatalities by addressing common traffic hazards.
“Our mission is simple: to save lives,” said Lt. Christopher Storm, Commander of the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety. He added that coordinated enforcement across jurisdictions allows agencies to make a meaningful impact. “We remind everyone to think and drive—slow down, stay alert, and never get behind the wheel while impaired.”
Officials emphasize that enforcement will be paired with education, reinforcing safe driving behaviors during winter travel conditions and peak commuting hours.
Motorists traveling through Merrimack County, Hillsborough County, and the greater Concord metro area are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and obey posted speed limits.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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