Windham voters turned down a special warrant article at the polls on Tuesday, Sept. 9, that would have allowed the town to enter a $1.25 million agreement to build a town road to provide a second access to the new high school.

Warrant Article 1 failed in a 986-794 vote, and now the town has to come up with another road plan that will be palatable to voters come their next trip to the polls in March. A similar article on the school district warrant was voted down at the polls last March.

The town was going to build a paved 24-foot-wide, 4,000-foot-long road over the existing London Bridge Road. The new road would have connected Route 111 to Castle Hill Road, acting as a second access for emergency vehicles to the school and also allowing them quicker access across town.

The New Hampshire State Board of Education recently sent notice to the town saying the high school project will not get 30 percent aid unless the building is in line with Fire Chief Tom McPherson’s charge to comply with state fire codes.

Before it opens in September 2009, McPherson said the school needs a second access to meet minimum state fire code requirements. It must be 20 feet wide, have a 13-feet, 6-inch vertical clearance, be able to carry fire trucks and have a design that can be maintained year round.

“We’re obviously disappointed, but I respect the voters’ decision,” McPherson said. “Somebody needs to step up to the plate and get something in there.”

McPherson supported the Board of Selectmen’s design for the public road.

“From a public safety standpoint, it’s disappointing,” he said. “I’m willing to work with any individuals or groups to make sure that school opens on time.”

Selectman Bruce Breton said the board will discuss their options for a new plan in upcoming meetings. “I just wish the School Board and the Board of Selectmen had really come together,” Breton said.

Voters approved Warrant Article 2 in a 1,170 to 571 vote to place 83 acres of land in the town forest into conservation with the Exeter-based South East Land Trust.