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City says three West Lebanon Main Street buildings are likely dilapidated and may be demolished; bridge work could require detours affecting Elm Street West
Summary
City staff described three uninhabitable Main Street properties likely needing demolition and said DEW will present redevelopment proposals this summer; members also discussed imminent bridge work, a possible at-grade temporary detour on Twin State property and concerns about diverted truck traffic onto Elm Street West.
City staff reported the city owns three Main Street properties in West Lebanon in poor condition and that the current structural envelope is likely beyond renovation, making demolition a probable next step.
The manager said the city knows acquisition costs and has budgeted demolition expenses but has not decided what should follow demolition. Staff said DEW (a developer) is preparing alternative proposals, including a purely market‑rate plan and an alternate plan that would rely on federal subsidies to achieve affordability; staff expects DEW to present a follow‑up this summer.
Commissioners discussed the visual changes underway on Main Street tied to bridge work (retaining walls, grading) and the prominence of historic structures such as the Dana House. The group also debated detour options for the bridge closure: a temporary at‑grade railroad crossing using land owned by Twin State Sand & Gravel was described as a possible short‑term fix, while a long‑term under‑rail separation would depend on larger projects such as the Iron Horse proposal. Members acknowledged Elm Street West residents' concerns about diverting heavy truck traffic.
The commission noted that DOT construction offices are using some of the buildings temporarily and that a tour for commissioners has been arranged to see conditions firsthand. No demolition decision was taken at the June 24 meeting; staff said they'll await DEW's proposal and council guidance.
Public comment: Morgan Brophy of the Upper Valley Business Alliance asked whether the commission has a defined role in attracting new businesses; commissioners said business attraction is appropriate to include in strategic planning and suggested the topic be put on a future agenda.
