Examining the intersection between New Hampshire’s rapid biotech growth and the resulting housing affordability pressures, the New England Real Estate Journal brought together thought leaders to discuss challenges and solutions at the Southern New Hampshire Life Science and Housing Summit. New Hampshire Director of Land Development Eric Gerade shared insights on advancing residential projects from a site civil engineering perspective, speaking on a panel with property developers, owners, and seasoned real estate professionals.
Eric discussed key challenges to advancing housing initiatives in the state, including zoning restrictions, water and sewer infrastructure constraints, and regulatory review processes—all of which influence the development process. Eric also highlighted recent amendments to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) and New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) review process that will benefit developers, including clearer expectations around response timelines and more predictable initial comments during reviews.
Touching on VHB’s role and experience in moving these projects forward, Eric shared insights on the challenges and opportunities that our developer partners are facing.
“Improvements in how the NHDES and NHDOT manage their regulatory permitting process are helping responsible residential projects move forward with greater certainty and fewer delays,” said Eric. “At VHB, our understanding of these evolving regulations allows us to anticipate challenges, streamline documentation, and support developers from concept to constructible housing.”
VHB has been working with municipalities in southern New Hampshire to advance residential projects in the area. The Merrimack Park Place project will bring a total of 402 much-needed new residential units, with 224 multifamily units at Slate at Merrimack already completed. Our team is also partnering with developer Procopio to support the development of approximately 250 cottage-style rental homes in Londonderry.
VHB has also collaborated with developers to expand living options for life sciences professionals in the growing biotech hub of New Hampshire’s Upper Valley. Bringing more than 550 new units to Lebanon, The Marek South and Summit at Juniper offer housing to graduate students and commuting professionals with proximity to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Dartmouth College, and nearby tech industries.
Learn how VHB is collaborating with developers and municipalities to create housing solutions that meet the diverse needs of New England’s communities.
