Project Overview
- Vaughan Mall project is now starting the restoration process.
- The Fleet Street Sewer Separation project has moved on to Congress Street.
The City of Portsmouth NH started urgent work in Vaughan Mall to replace the sewer, stormwater, and water lines due to the deteriorating sewer line on September 2, 2025 and will continue through early December. On completion, the intention is to apply temporary asphalt paving for the winter.
Area of Impact
Project Updates
Subscribe to UpdatesVaughan Mall Restoration Project Public Information Session Jul 20, 2026
The Vaughan Mall Restoration Project Public Information Session will be held on Wednesday, July 22nd from 6:30-8 pm in the Levenson Room at the Library.
Update 2/17/2026
This project work has now shifted to adjacent areas of Congress Street. The project will now be put back on hold in wait of the restoration project of Vaughan Mall.
https://project-city-of-portsmouth.pantheonsite.io/city/projects/congress-street
Project Documents
Meeting Material (Agendas, Minutes and Presentations)
- Vaughan Mall Landscape Presentation Jul 22, 2026
- Fleet Street Reconstruction - Phase 2A: Vaughan Mall - Presentation Aug 20, 2025
- Vaughan Mall Landscape Design – Public Information Meeting Jul 7, 2025
Project Video
07/22/26 Vaughan Mall Restoration Project Public Information Session
08/20/25 - Pre-construction meeting
07/07/25 - Vaughan Mall Landscape Design – Public Meeting
Project FAQ
Can the City provide a bike rack?
The City will look to provide a bike rack at an appropriate location.
Can the City find a way to improve the moped parking and impacts to business locations?
The City has ordinances related to moped parking. The City will look to identify appropriate locations for mopeds and identify if additional enforcement is needed.
Will the City reset the Carriage Stone in Vaughan Mall?
Yes, it will be incorporated in the final design.
Will the City reset the mailbox in Vaughan Mall?
Yes, it will be incorporated in the final design.
Will the City irrigate planting bed in the mall?
There will likely be no automated watering due to water conservation initiatives. There will however be a source of water provided in the design.
Will the mall be obstructed by businesses or other uses?
The City intends to leave the mall as a flexible space and not to dictate uses. However, if uses of the space after construction cause negative impacts to other users, the City will identify management options.
Will there be water or fountain accommodations for dogs?
The City will look to incorporate water opportunities for dogs/pets.
Why go with the metal screening?
The City selected a limited visual screen for the project to maintain open views and visuals. Walls and other visual features have led to nuisance and potential safety hazards in the past. Public safety staff have recommended maintaining open gaps and unencumbered sight lines for any fencing and screenings in the project along with improved lighting.
Will there be benches and seating?
The City intends to provide limited fixed seating options for the project. The City will set out limited flexible benches/tables with the intention for the community to add to the space based on the on-going needs.