The New Hampshire Preservation Alliance is adding the state's main streets to this year's list of "Seven to Save," which highlights vulnerable historic resources.
In announcing this year's list on Tuesday, the alliance said main streets are vital to the economic and social well-being of New Hampshire.
The restrictions and changes imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic this year have magnified the challenges main streets face, from theaters to sacred places to retail, dining and lodging establishments, the alliance said.
Main street investment, especially in historic buildings and streetscapes, helps define communities, encourage community pride and engagement, attract families and tourists, and foster creative expression, the group said. The main streets and the six other structures being recognized this year need investment to become viable community assets again, it said.
"We need these places to survive and thrive," said Nicholas Mitchell, chair of the board of directors of the Preservation Alliance. "These landmarks are the heart and soul of our daily life and feel even more important during these uncertain times."
Historic structures on this year's list are the Judge Ripley House, Colebrook; St. Joseph Church, Laconia; Langdon Congregational Church, Langdon; Mont Vernon Town Hall, Mont Vernon; Tilton Island Park Bridge, Tilton; and the Gasholder Building, Concord.
