Route 1 Bypass business owners envision a future for the roadway that involves landscaping, bike paths, street lights — and probably a lot more businesses than there are now.

Town Planner Gerry Mylroie suggested that the road be three lanes instead of the current five lanes, not only to slow down traffic but to add green space, street lights, trees and other amenities. In addition, the new bridge will have a bike lane, so bicyclists should have a way to travel down the road.

The Long Bridge replacement is set to begin by the end of this year or in early 2015 and be completed by 2017. It is slated to be closed to traffic for six months when both ends are tied into land.

A meeting held at Kittery Town Hall Thursday centered on how to “brand” the bypass and make it more attractive. The name “Gateway to Maine” was suggested.

Other ideas such as perhaps a statue of a lobster or moose that would attract picture-taking families or changing the name of the bypass to something else.

For the full story, visit the Portsmouth Herald.