After 24 months of construction and careful historic preservation, the 6 apartments in the completely renovated Parker J. Noyes building are ready for tenants.

In 2018, we had a vision of how the dilapidated 11,000-square-foot building could be transformed to bring more life to the north end of Lancaster’s historic downtown. The New Hampshire Preservation Alliance recognized the project as an outstanding example of successful historic preservation and community development investment in its 2022 awards.

We’re grateful to our partners Alba Architects and Garland Mill, and to the 35 subcontracting companies and nearly 80 skilled tradesfolk who worked on the project, for the great design and high-quality craftsmanship that has resulted in a beautiful building. Preparations continue on the first floor, as Taproot Farm & Environmental Education Center outfits the space for its local food market and nonprofit programs.

Community Investment

“We wanted to catalyze investment in Maine Street and contribute to Lancaster’s vitality as a community,” said Program Director Julie Renaud Evans. “Our project has inspired others to invest in Main Street, including purchasing some other buildings and renovating them for mixed uses. We are so pleased with the community’s response to the Parker J. Noyes project.”

The Noyes redevelopment project was funded in part by an impact investment fund the Center created to enable investors to put their capital to work earning a return while also generating community dividends. The success of the Lancaster Main Street Fund and the Millinocket Housing Initiative prompted the Center to create the Northern Forest Fund, which will help finance similar redevelopment projects in other Nothern Forest communities.