After years of planning and permission seeking, dignitaries gathered in Londonderry Tuesday for the groundbreaking of Woodmont Commons. The 603-acre project, to be developed in phases, is the largest endeavor of its type in New Hampshire history.
It will bring more than 880,000 square feet of retail space, 1,400 housing units, as well as hotels and offices to the site of a former apple orchard.
“A project like this is a great selling tool for the state of New Hampshire. It says we can get things done,” said Gov. Chris Sununu. He, along with other dignitaries, donned hard hats and dug with silver shovels for a ceremonial groundbreaking--an event moved indoors due to inclement weather.
The Woodmont Commons plan is years in the making. It’s first phase received final approval from the town’s planning board in September of 2013.
“The golden goose has laid her eggs, and they’re right here in Londonderry,” said Tom Dolan, Chairman of the Town Council. He told the crowd the town is doing development right.
Work on the site will begin with infrastructure and utility upgrades. By 2019, officials expect construction will start on a new exit off of Interstate 93 (4A), which will provide easier access to the development.
The residential units will be a mix of both apartments and duplexes, all within walking distance of amenities such as shops and restaurants. Woodmont officials say they already have one anchor tenant lined up: 603 Brewery.
