Dodson & Flinker worked with Turowski2 Architecture as consultants to DCR to design erosion control and pedestrian improvements for the historic Eliot Tower and Eliot Memorial Bridge at the summit of Great Blue Hill. The Memorial Bridge is a stone structure erected as a memorial to landscape architect Charles Eliot at the beginning of the 20th century. The adjacent Eliot Tower was constructed subsequently by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Our work on the project began in 2015 with a Conditions Assessment of the structure and surrounding landscape, followed by the development of construction documents for site improvements. The project was constructed in two phases: phase one (Lawrence Lynch Corp.) summer 2021; phase two (Ace Restoration) completed 2024. Work included stone dust paths with an organic binder that provide a wheelchair accessible route from the bridge to the rear of the Tower. The fill associated with this new pedestrian surface is supported by boulder edging and stone steps at trail entrances. Additional improvements to the site and structures include repointing of stonework, wheelchair improvements within the structure, and additional fill and conservation planting. This work is a first critical step in the creation of a future wheelchair accessible trail around the perimeter of the summit.
ELIOT TOWER MASONRY AND EROSION REPAIRS
