Memorial Drive Construction


11/13/2015 • 9 years ago

caution sign The information on this page may be outdated as it was published 9 years ago.

Rendering of Memorial Drive Construction

What’s Going on Along Memorial Drive Between the BU and Mass. Ave Bridges?

Cathie Zusy has laid out a quick FAQ on the construction on Memorial Drive.  Following is the information she found.

Historic Parkways Initiative, Phase II (Memorial Drive)

What you’re beginning to see along Memorial Drive, from the BU Boathouse to the Mass. Ave. Bridge —trees penned off and others marked with an orange dot for cutting—is planning for Memorial Drive Historic Parkway, Phase II. Phase I (2002-2005) mostly focused on infrastructure (stormwater/sewer separation) and creating more parkland by narrowing the parkway.  Phase II was permitted in 2009 but not funded. Just this year, the State appropriated money to proceed with Phase II. It’s just starting. DCR hopes that it will be completed in 2016.

Phase II, which mostly implements Charles Eliot and the Olmsteds’ 1897 plan, will:

  • Create a new 6’ paved pedestrian/running path along the river (bikers will stay on a 10’ wide path beside the road);
  • Plant about 270 new trees and other plantings; and
  • Remove sick trees and trees in the way of the riverside path. Note 2.2 trees will be planted for each tree cut down and the contractor will be required to water the new trees for two years;
  • Add lighting and furnishings;
  • Reset the historic granite capstones at the river’s edge.

In the next month contractors will begin excavating near the BU Boathouse to update utilities: sewer/water and electricity.  

For more information

For further information and renderings of the plan, click this link.

For more information from the state, please click this link.