Strathmore Mill Cleanup - July 2026 Project Update

In July 2026, the Town of Montague and its engineering consultant, Tighe & Bond, continued refining the Strathmore Mill Cleanup project as design work advanced toward the bidding phase. This month's efforts focused on updating project cost estimates, evaluating procurement strategies, and further coordinating with project stakeholders.

The project team completed updated construction cost estimates for the Base Bid and each of the three demolition alternates. Based on the latest engineering analysis, the Base Bid and Alternates 1 and 2 remain within the project's available construction budget, while Alternate 3—which would involve demolition of Buildings 2 and 4 in addition to the other structures—continues to present significantly greater technical complexity, risk, and cost. As design has progressed, contingency allowances have been refined to better reflect the level of uncertainty associated with each alternative.

Engineering work throughout the month also continued to improve the project's understanding of Building 9 and the adjacent hydroelectric infrastructure. Tighe & Bond continued evaluating existing utility connections, structural interfaces, and site access requirements associated with Building 9. This information will help guide final design decisions and future coordination with Eagle Creek Renewables and other project stakeholders as the project moves toward the bidding phase.

The Town and its consultants also began evaluating procurement approaches for this highly specialized demolition project. Because of the project's size and complexity, the team is exploring the use of contractor prequalification to help ensure that bidding is limited to firms with the necessary experience and qualifications. In addition, the Town is evaluating the potential need to retain an Owner's Project Manager (OPM) to assist with the bidding and construction phases.

Permitting efforts continued to move forward during July. State review of the project's Beneficial Use Determination (BUD) application remains underway, while consultation with the Massachusetts Historical Commission continues following submission of the project's historical review materials. The project team also continued coordinating with the Montague Historical Commission, Eagle Creek Renewables, and FirstLight Power as design details and construction planning evolve.

Looking ahead, the Town expects to continue advancing final design documents, complete remaining regulatory reviews, and prepare procurement documents in anticipation of bidding later this year. The Town will continue providing monthly updates as additional project milestones are reached.

For more information, please visit the project webpage.

Posted: to General Montague News on Thu, Jul 23, 2026
Updated: Thu, Jul 23, 2026