Gasholder Partners Making Progress Toward Emergency Stabilization

An emergency stabilization project, facilitated by the N.H. Preservation Alliance working closely with property owner Liberty Utility, is planned for this fall and winter; it is the first step towards preservation and revitalizing the structure. Phase 1 features structural scaffolding and cabling to secure the roof as well as the compression ring that runs around the base of the roof. The major goals of the work are to avoid collapse and set up infrastructure for next phase of work on masonry, roof and other elements. Passersby will see small group of steeplejacks and advisors on the site and some evidence of work, but the majority of the activity will be inside the structure. Check back for more on the specific schedule and when work will start!

An experienced engineering firm, Structures North, who offered a preliminary assessment of the building in December 2020, has created the design for the stabilization. The work is designed to prevent a catastrophic loss of this last-of-its-kind landmark and offer time for additional planning and fundraising for the property. “This investment serves a very important “down-payment” said Jennifer Goodman, executive director of the Preservation Alliance. Over the last several months the two groups and the City of Concord have worked to reverse Liberty’s 2020 demolition recommendation and come up with a plan leading to the landmark’s protection and property’s use. More on the parties’ spring 2021 agreements here.

Want to know more how the Gasholder worked? Check out the Concord Historical Society’s recent 6-minute video on the Gasholder featuring Cedric Dustin, former president of the Concord Gas Company. He recalls his early days with the company and when Concord’s historic gas holder was functioning.