As many residents are aware, the north side of the Sugar River — particularly the area encompassing the former Synergy and Joy Manufacturing sites — has long been a focus of environmental cleanup efforts by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This stretch of land, beginning near the Broad Street Bridge and continuing to Spring Street, holds both historical significance and the potential for thoughtful redevelopment.
In 2023, the city of Claremont received an $800,000 Brownfields Multipurpose Grant from the EPA. This funding supports environmental assessments, remediation, and redevelopment planning for several long-vacant industrial sites along the river, including the former Synergy (Monadnock Gas Works) site. The grant will be used over a five-year period and includes site assessments, community engagement and reuse planning.
The project covers approximately 6.5 acres within Claremont’s Historic District, touching on key areas. The goal is to transform these brownfields into usable community spaces. Potential outcomes could include open green areas, improved riverfront access and even electric vehicle charging stations.
To support this vision, the city has partnered with Weston & Sampson for engineering services and formed a steering committee to help guide the grant’s implementation. The committee has actively engaged with the community — most notably at last fall’s Chili Cook-Off event — to gather input and share information.
It’s important to note that this effort builds on prior recognition by former city leaders, including Director Nancy Merrill, who understood that the site should be redeveloped in some fashion. However, the type of development being pursued is shaped by the limitations of the site and the funding available.
On Wednesday, April 9, Weston & Sampson presented a conceptual overview of what the area between Broad Street and the green behind the Visitors Center could eventually look like. These were not final designs or a commitment to spend city funds, but rather a progress report to show the community what’s possible. The presentation was part of an ongoing effort to communicate transparently and inclusively.
Discussions about future funding have also taken place with Sen. Jeanne Shaheen and former Rep. Annie Kuster. At one point, Rep. Kuster had identified the project as a candidate for Congressional Directed Spending (CDS), potentially covering nearly half of the estimated cost. Because full funding was not available, the project was envisioned in two phases. While Claremont had hoped to receive these federal funds — with no local match required — Congress’s inability to pass a budget has left that effort in limbo.
While disappointing, the city has not given up. We are now working closely with Rep. Goodlander and Sen. Shaheen’s office to advocate for funding in the 2026 federal budget. The continuation of CDS funding remains uncertain under the current administration, but until we know more, we must continue preparing and positioning ourselves for success.
This project is not included in the city’s 2026 budget, and for good reasons. As I’ve said before, while we all appreciate the “nice to have” elements in our community, current economic conditions require us to prioritize “need to have” items.
I encourage residents to stay engaged with this effort. The Steering Committee for EPA multipurpose grant meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m., and all are welcome. Please check the city calendar for details. Your input matters as we continue to explore the future of Claremont’s riverfront.
