Barrington Town Center Day brings together the local economy and the outdoors

On a bright first day of autumn, Barrington residents came together to learn, share, and talk about the future of the town center. The day began with morning presentations and discussion at Barrington Elementary School. Participants were then invited to walk the new perimeter trail to Barrington Common, a 13-acre town property that offers open space, pines, and growing potential as a community gathering place.

Throughout the afternoon, local families visited booths hosted by several project partners, including UNH Cooperative Extension, Resilience Planning & Design, and the Town Center Development Committee. More than 100 visitors stopped by the Extension booth to explore the Downtowns & Trails program and provide feedback on six short- and medium-term recommendations developed through the year-long partnership between Extension and the Town of Barrington.

Conversations at the Extension tent gave residents an opportunity to share priorities, ask questions, and reflect on how Barrington’s trails, natural areas, and town center could be better connected in the years ahead. Some participants attended the morning session, where Shannon Rogers , UNH Extension State Specialist, presented findings and ideas from the Downtowns & Trails process. Others joined in the afternoon to learn more, explore concepts informally, and add their perspectives.

Children participated by drawing pictures of their favorite trail activities, contributing a simple and creative element to the day.

As the Downtowns & Trails program in Barrington comes to a close, the conversation continues. Extension will remain a resource as local volunteers and town staff carry forward insights and recommendations to turn ideas into action. Building on recent accomplishments and the energy evident across the community, Barrington is well-positioned to advance efforts that reflect local goals, strengthen connections, and make the most of its unique assets.

In true Barrington style, one action item is already getting started-at the Town Center Day Leopold Bench making took center stage to address the need to add setting to the Common and trailhead.