First Phase of Emergency Stabilization is Complete

With collapse and demolition averted, the project partners look to the landmark’s future.

The Concord, NH Gasholder is now one major step closer to a better future. After more than a year of intensive planning and seven months of complex engineering and preservation work, the last-of-its-kind landmark has been successfully stabilized, the first step toward preserving and revitalizing the vulnerable structure for public enjoyment.

“We’ve built the momentum needed to save and stabilize this remarkable building,” said Nicholas Mitchell, Board Member and Past Chairman of the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance. “The Gasholder was part of a vibrant 19th century industrial complex. We’re optimistic about the growing interest in bringing that excitement back to this up-and-coming neighborhood.”

Drone photo courtesy of Bill Graham, Iron Works Images

The Preservation Alliance is engaging with stakeholders and potential redevelopment partners with a focus on finding a future use for the 2-acre property as a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization. The story of the locally and nationally significant Concord Gasholder has received wide media coverage. View more exciting project photos in our Gallery here.

Emergency stabilization of the National Register-listed Gasholder began this spring. Facilitated by the Preservation Alliance in collaboration with property owner Liberty, the City of Concord, and a team of nationally recognized engineers and consultants, the work entailed interior structural scaffolding and exterior cabling to support the compromised roof and compression ring that encircles the base of the roof.  The major goals were to avoid collapse and set up infrastructure for the next phase of work on masonry, roof, and other elements.

The New Hampshire Preservation Alliance listed the gasholder on its Seven to Save list for a second time in 2020 because of its national significance and redevelopment potential after Liberty announced plans to seek a demolition permit due to the imminent risk of collapse. The Preservation Alliance has hosted public forums, helped support redevelopment analysis and nominated the building for national Most Endangered status and a federal historic preservation grant.

“We are proud to be able to support this project and help preserve an important part of our local history,” said Neil Proudman, President of Liberty – New Hampshire. “Projects like this enrich the community, and we look forward to watching it come to life.”

The New Hampshire Preservation Alliance invites comments and questions about the history and future of the Gasholder and the Save Our Gasholder campaign. Email projects@nhpreservation.org and put Gasholder in the subject line or call us at (603) 224-2281.