New London, NH: How Edgewater Strategies is Working Toward Solutions

“Developing alternative water solutions is necessary to help build workforce housing for New Hampshire's future.” - Abby Thompson-Fopiano

Groundwater Contamination Stalls Critical Housing Developments in New London, NH: How Edgewater Strategies is Working Toward Solutions

New London, NH, is facing a significant setback in the development of two vital housing projects. With nearly 200 planned housing units in limbo, the culprit is not funding or planning—but groundwater contamination caused by a dry cleaning business that operated nearby. This contamination has raised alarms about the safety of local water supplies and highlighted broader concerns about the municipal water system’s capacity.

The Problem: Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) Contamination

The contamination issue came to light back in 2016, when tests revealed the presence of Tetrachloroethylene (PCE), a chemical commonly used in dry cleaning, in the groundwater. More recently, tests confirmed that this chemical is still present at levels that prevent the development of two much-needed housing projects.

One of the projects, a 139-unit senior living facility, was set to be built on New London Hospital property. This facility, known as New London Place, was intended to include 95 condominiums and a 40-unit assisted living facility. Additionally, a 60-unit workforce housing project, critical for the local labor force, was planned just across County Road from the hospital.

However, both projects have stalled. The contamination affects private water supplies on both sites, and the local water district is not allowing the developments to hook into the municipal water system due to concerns over capacity.

Why This Matters to the Community

This setback comes at a time when New London and the state of New Hampshire are grappling with a severe housing shortage, particularly in affordable housing for workers and seniors. The delays not only impact the local economy but also put the town’s key institutions—such as its hospital, college, and school district—at risk. Without adequate housing for workers and retirees, the town faces challenges in attracting and retaining employees.

New London’s Selectboard Chairman, Bill Helm, echoed the concerns: “The viability of our businesses and institutions, our college, our hospital, and our school district are all in jeopardy if they cannot attract employees who need affordable housing.”

The Solution: Edgewater Strategies Steps In

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, hydrogeologist Abby Thompson Fopiano of Edgewater Strategies is involved in finding a path through this complex water issue. Edgewater Strategies is collaborating with the projects to think outside the box to develop alternative water solutions for these housing developments. The goal is clear: to help build affordable and workforce housing, which state officials have identified as a pressing need for New Hampshire's future.

Edgewater has already installed high-producing bedrock wells for both the senior living and workforce housing projects. However, water quality remains an issue, and further work is required to secure safe, reliable water supplies.

Challenges and Future Steps

The New London-Springfield Water District has stated that its system cannot support new connections, which has compounded the challenge. By focusing on high-quality well installations and water system permitting, Edgewater aims to overcome these obstacles and get the projects back on track.

These efforts are not only critical for the developments themselves but also for the broader community. Affordable housing is essential to New London’s future, allowing it to grow sustainably and ensure that local businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities can thrive with a stable workforce.

A Critical Moment for New London

The contamination issue and the resulting delay of nearly 200 housing units present a stark reminder of the need for careful water management and sustainable development. While the road ahead involves addressing water quality and capacity issues, Edgewater Strategies is committed to providing the solutions necessary to move these projects forward.

At a time when New Hampshire is pushing for more affordable housing, overcoming these challenges will not only benefit New London but serve as a model for how other communities can navigate similar water-related obstacles.

Edgewater’s role as the primary hydrogeologist and water system permitting leader underscores the critical nature of their involvement. As they work toward resolving the contamination issue, the hope is that these housing developments will soon become a reality, bringing much-needed affordable housing options to the people of New London.