After years of decline that left its once-vibrant downtown pockmarked with empty storefronts and boarded-up buildings, the city of Claremont is seeing tangible results from a comprehensive revitalization effort that has cut the downtown commercial vacancy rate nearly in half over the past three years.
According to city development data, the vacancy rate along Pleasant Street and the surrounding downtown core has fallen from 38 percent in 2023 to 21 percent today, with 14 new businesses opening in the area since the city launched its “Claremont Rising” initiative in partnership with local business leaders and the regional planning commission.
“We still have work to do, but the trajectory is clear — downtown Claremont is coming back,” said city manager Ed Morris.
Among the new arrivals is River Valley Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant that opened in a renovated building on Pleasant Street that had been vacant for nearly a decade. Owner chef Megan Proulx said Claremont’s affordability and community spirit drew her from the Seacoast, where commercial rents had become prohibitive.
“I couldn’t afford to open this restaurant in Portsmouth, but in Claremont I found a beautiful space, reasonable rent, and a community that genuinely roots for you,” Proulx said. “Our regulars are like family.”
The Claremont Rising initiative has employed a multi-pronged approach, including a facade improvement grant program, a small business startup fund, expedited permitting for downtown businesses, and a marketing campaign to raise the city’s profile regionally.
The city has also invested in streetscape improvements, adding planters, benches, and better lighting along Pleasant Street. A new pocket park on Opera House Square, built on a former vacant lot, has become a popular gathering spot.
“You have to create the conditions for businesses to succeed,” said Nancy Merrill, chair of the Claremont Development Authority. “That means attractive streets, responsive city hall, and a welcoming community. We’re building all three.”
Challenges remain, particularly around workforce housing and the need for continued infrastructure investment. But community leaders say the momentum is real and growing. A new downtown brewery and a specialty outdoor gear shop are both expected to open before summer.
