April was a month filled with excitement and community-driven initiatives around the Greater Concord area. Here’s a quick recap of the important stories from this past month.
1. Londonderry Flea Market Opens for the Season
Springtime shoppers and treasure hunters rejoiced as the Londonderry Flea Market (LFM) kicked off its 2025 season on April 19 and 20. Situated on a sprawling 30-acre property, the market is known for its wide-ranging assortment of vendors and unique finds. This year, shoppers can browse everything from antiques and handmade crafts to gardening supplies and jewelry. Families and pets are welcome, with picnic areas and even a pond to test out remote-control boats. LFM will remain open weekends through October, weather permitting.
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2. Further Delays to Steeplegate Mall Redevelopment
Efforts to revitalize Concord’s closed Steeplegate Mall remain stuck due to ongoing legal challenges. The developer, Onyx Partners, aims to transform the property into a vibrant mixed-use community. It will feature apartments, retail spaces, and major new businesses. However, redevelopment plans have faced numerous obstacles, most recently from a lawsuit filed by current tenant JCPenney. The retailer argues redevelopment efforts would violate its long-standing lease, halting demolition and construction. Additionally, the property has attracted trespassers and vandals, creating safety and legal concerns. Although earlier disputes, including a settlement involving TD Bank’s parcel, were resolved, progress remains stalled pending resolution of these remaining issues.
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3. Capital Region Food Program Expands Efforts Amid Rising Food Insecurity
With federal assistance changes creating new challenges for local families, the Capital Region Food Program (CRFP) has stepped up to address rising food insecurity in Greater Concord. CRFP’s Year-Round Distribution Project currently supports more than 30 local agencies and has seen a notable increase in demand; with a 6% rise in participation and a 10% spike in distribution costs this year alone. The organization’s voucher-based Holiday Project supported nearly 2,000 families last season. CRFP emphasizes the need for community support through donations and volunteer efforts to maintain this vital local safety net amid economic uncertainty.
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Looking Ahead
April highlighted how interconnected our community truly is. Through the joy of supporting local small businesses, addressing challenges in large-scale redevelopment projects, or banding together to ensure no neighbor goes hungry. Keep following along with us here at the Concord Sentinel as we continue to bring you important stories and updates from around New Hampshire.
