Chinburg's plan to bring 145 apartments to mills cheered in Somersworth

Karen Dandurant, Foster's Daily Democrat
·2 min read

SOMERSWORTH — Chinburg Properties' proposal to build approximately 145 housing units in the city's mill district received a positive reception from the city's Planning Board.

Chinburg Properties brought its plans for the former Great Falls Bleachery and Dye Works at 200 Main St. to the board for a conceptual review Wednesday night. The project would include the restoration of one of the mill buildings remaining on the site, and the addition of two new buildings. Parking would be in small lots with some underground spaces.

The former Great Falls Bleachery and Dye Works mill building in Somersworth still stands at left but some parts of the structure were destroyed by fire in 2019. Developer Eric Chinburg plans to create 145 housing units on the property.
The former Great Falls Bleachery and Dye Works mill building in Somersworth still stands at left but some parts of the structure were destroyed by fire in 2019. Developer Eric Chinburg plans to create 145 housing units on the property.

"I want to thank you for this proposal," said Paul Robidas, Planning Board member. "Chinburg has a reputation for excellence, and I am excited about revitalizing this area. It is a great design, and I am excited to see the plan when you bring it forward."

Nursing home only, no homeless facility: Strafford County Republicans make demands known

David Witham, City Council representative to the Planning Board, said he looks favorably on the proposal.

"I want to see the full plan, but there are aspects I already like," said Witham. "I like the use of mini parking lots. I think it is a better aesthetic."

The mill district has been plagued by fires, including in 2003, 2007 and 2019, when teenagers were charged with arson.

The Great Falls Bleachery and Dye Factory of Somersworth in a historic photo.
The Great Falls Bleachery and Dye Factory of Somersworth in a historic photo.

"All of these fires and COVID have been contributing factors on dampering plans," said Paul Goodwin, senior development manager for Chinburg and a city councilor in Somersworth.

Another part of the Chinburg proposal is to begin development of a riverwalk, which would be open to the public. That plan got kudos from Planning Board member Mark Richardson.

"I have lived here 44-years," said Richardson. "I have been hearing talk about projects involving the river for many years. Thank you for starting this."

No date was set for Chinburg's submission of a formal site plan.

This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: Chinburg's 145 apartment plan for Somersworth NH mills cheered