Sustainable Hanover Walking Tour
In collaboration with Antioch College and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Dartmouth College hosted in mid-September the sixth biannual conference on “promoting a rural Northeast region that is climate resilient, equitable, economically revitalized, and decarbonized.” Organizers invited Sustainable Hanover to showcase some of the Town’s sustainability initiatives, including a walking tour of downtown Hanover and brief presentations at Town Hall.
Led by Sustainable Hanover members Marcus Welker, Gail Gentes, and Jennie Chamberlain, about twenty participants walked from the Irving Center to the School Street Sustainability Park, then on to Town Hall for presentations. Judi Colla, Co-Chair of Sustainable Hanover, described how a volunteer Town Committee with an annual budget of just $1,500 supports “community efforts to ensure the town thrives for present and future generations.” Town Manager Rob Houseman outlined the Sustainable Hanover Master Plan; Public Works Director Pete Kulbacki discussed efforts to reduce flood risk, improve efficiency, and install solar arrays; and architect Chris Kennedy spoke about the Town’s strategy for addressing housing challenges.
Afterward, participants continued down Lebanon Street to meet Hanover High School representatives Deb Robinson, Education Assistant, and Jay Fisher, Science Teacher, who discussed the SAU 70 Climate Action Plan and other district sustainability projects. In addition, Marcus Welker highlighted Dartmouth’s conversion from a century-old steam heating system powered by #6 fuel oil to a new hot-water system using renewable geothermal energy. Judi Colla spoke about Hanover’s Ready for 100 goals. And Jennie Chamberlain noted historic examples where single-unit houses once held multiple units and, because of recent zoning changes, can now again.
The group then followed Crosby Street, turned between the gym and football field, and crossed Park Street to Valley Road, where they viewed a shared street design that safely accommodates cars, pedestrians, and bicyclists. David Anderson, Senior Dartmouth Planner, explained how recent zoning changes are enabling more dense staff housing in the area.
For the final leg, participants walked past additional construction along West Wheelock Street, turned onto College Street, and stopped at the crosswalk in front of College Hall, where pedestrian-activated flashing lights enhance safety.
Tired but inspired after two days of networking, learning, and exploration, participants headed home from the Dartmouth Green in different directions—hopefully energized by Hanover’s ongoing sustainability journey.
For your own more detailed virtual tour, go to Sustainable Hanover Walking Tour Story Map .
