Portsmouth, NH – Plan New Hampshire (Plan NH) is proud to announce the 30th anniversary of its signature Community Design Charrette Program, which has helped towns and cities across the Granite State envision healthier, more vibrant futures since 1996.
The first Plan NH charrette took place in Belmont, New Hampshire in January 1996, launching what would become a cornerstone program for the organization. Over the past three decades, Plan NH and its dedicated volunteers have completed 85 charrettes in 69 communities of all sizes, from small villages to downtown centers.
A Plan NH charrette is a collaborative, hands-on planning process that brings together a diverse team of volunteer professionals—representing architecture, planning, engineering, landscape architecture, housing, economic development, and more—to work side-by-side with residents and community leaders. Over the course of two days, the team:
- Visits and evaluates the focus area, such as a village center, downtown, neighborhood, or key community space;
- Engages in open conversations and feedback sessions with residents and local stakeholders; and
- Develops community-specific ideas and recommendations, informed by both local knowledge and professional expertise.
The result is a practical roadmap of possibilities that communities can use to guide future decisions, investments, and grant opportunities.
“Charrettes are about more than design—they’re about listening, connecting, and creating a shared vision for the future,” said Tiffany Tononi McNamara, Executive Director of Plan NH. “For 30 years, these conversations have helped communities take action toward vibrant, livable places that support people, the economy, and the environment.”
On average, Plan NH facilitates three to four charrettes each year in response to requests from communities seeking fresh ideas and outside perspectives. The impact of this work can be seen statewide, from revitalized downtowns and improved public spaces and stronger civic engagement.
Throughout 2026, Plan NH will highlight past projects, share stories from volunteers and host communities, and celebrate the lasting legacy of this collaborative program.
About Plan NH:
Established in 1989, Plan NH is a 501(c)3 organization, with a growing membership of planners, designers, builders, and others. We have a mission to “foster excellence in planning, design and development of New Hampshire’s built environment” and a vision of vibrant communities across the state. Through programs like design charrettes and educational initiatives, Plan NH encourages towns and cities across New Hampshire to think holistically about their future growth and development. For more information about the charrette program and to explore past reports, visit https://plannh.org/programs/charrettes.