ADG noted that some of the other 14 surviving gasholders around the country have been converted for office (North Attleboro, MA above), storage and hotel use. Meeting preservation standards during preservation/redevelopment would unlock certain incentives and grant sources.

Stuart Arnett of ADG, LLC, a planning and development group based in Concord, presented recommendations for an incremental and aspirational approach to preservation and redevelopment for the Concord Gasholder at a recent presentation. The strategy secures the building and its future potential while phasing investments, allowing time to secure redevelopment interest, funding and financing from private and public sources, as well as consider the Gasholder’s revitalization as a catalyst for this portion of the South End. Arnett shared his findings at a December 14 meeting of the City of Concord’s Ad-hoc Gasholder Committee. Here’s new info on the Gasholder.

Arnett described how the redevelopment of the building offers benefits to both Liberty Utilities and the City of Concord. He recommended initiating a short period of good faith negotiations to develop a specific path forward. He also shared preliminary information from Structures North, an engineering firm that specializes in old buildings, for a phased stabilization plan for the landmark that should start as soon as possible.

In response to news late this summer that Liberty Utilities planned to secure a demolition permit for its landmark building, Mayor Jim Bouley appointed the committee to identify preservation and redevelopment options that are compatible with the community’s vision for this area of the City and be a win-win for preservation and economic opportunities. Councilor Byron Champlin chairs the committee and is joined by Councilors Linda Kenison, Jennifer Kretovic, Brent Todd, and Robert Werner. Additional committee members are Tim Sink from the Concord Chamber of Commerce, Huck Montgomery from Liberty Utilities and leaders in real estate, preservation and redevelopment – Bill Norton, Frank Lemay, Ben Wilson, Jon Chorlian and Liz Durfee Hengen. The N.H. Preservation Alliance, the statewide historic preservation organization, is supporting the effort. ADG, LLC has been hired to provide analysis and redevelopment options to the Committee with funding from the City and the Preservation Alliance.

Summary of findings:

· The building is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is the only one of the 14 known gasholders in the U.S. with its inner workings intact. A historic preservation construction and engineering approach that repairs the building and adds an unobtrusive support system offers 1) the chance to keep what’s most unique about the building, 2) unlocks access to certain preservation funds and incentives, and 3) keeps the possibility of commercial re-use open as it retains the interior volume. With the right design and interpretation, the building offers a vibrant experience.

· Additional development on the site gives it more feasibility and viability. A 5,000-10,000 square foot structure fits well on the southeastern part of the lot. Restaurant, special event, and recreation-related uses are possibilities when considering market and constraints; hotel, housing and other uses seem less likely.

· The redevelopment of the Gasholder property is most successful, and has the best return on investment for any private and public sector investors, if it is part of a broader preservation and revitalization approach for the southern gateway of Concord. The redevelopment of this iconic building can drive a major lift in value and attractiveness for the surrounding area, especially with its nexus to downtown and the river. Imagine this area with a "cool brand” that attracts more businesses like S&W Sports and Evo Rock+Fitness and offers access to future trails along the river and a bus/transportation center. Redevelopment is most feasible with a mix of private and public investment. Possible sources include Community Development Finance Authority, New Markets Tax Credits and Federal Historic Preservation Tax Credits.

In terms of environmental issues, Arnett noted that the Gasholder currently serves as a cap to contaminants created during its industrial history. Demolition of the building would create additional assessment and likely additional clean-up work and costs, according to the owner’s consultant and state agency information. Future preservation and redevelopment of the property should minimize ground disturbance to lessen costs associated with management of contaminants. Arnett also emphasized that this project will benefit greatly from the sophistication of City staff and commitment from civic leaders.

At this meeting and previous public forums, stakeholders have expressed strong preference for preservation, rather than loss, of this distinctive round building, noting its future is being determined in the 60th anniversary year of the loss of Concord’s Victorian-era railroad station. Preservation investment in the Gasholder will rescue a last-of-its-kind national landmark and save an important—and visually arresting—icon of Concord’s industrial history. Preservation can also serve as a catalyst for redevelopment of Concord’s southern gateway corridor. Councilor Jennifer Kretovic spoke of the risk and the reward associated with any future City action.

The committee plans to meet again after the December holidays and hopes to report to the City Council in January. More on the gasholder’s history and recent activity here.

Consultant Recommends Incremental Preservation/Redevelopment Approach for Concord Gasholder: Landmark’s Iconic Role as Catalyst for Corridor Highlighted

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