DCR Public Meeting to Discuss Converting Bridge at Baker Chocolate Factory Complex
DCR Public Meeting to Discuss Converting Bridge at Baker Chocolate Factory Complex
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
6:30 - 8:00 PM
Baker Chocolate Factory Condominiums
Park Mill Function Room
1243 Adams Street
Dorchester, MA 02124
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has scheduled a public meeting for to discuss the agency’s plans to convert a former railroad bridge into a pedestrian bridge across the Neponset River between Dorchester and Milton.
The bridge, built in 1917 as a railway spur serving the Walter Baker Chocolate Factory, is in severe disrepair. The project will include repairing the steel structure of the bridge, replacing the existing railroad ties with a new 10-foot-wide timber deck, extending a new paved path to existing pathways on both sides of the river, and reconstructing the eroded riverbank on the Milton side of the Neponset.
Converting it to a pedestrian bridge will create a connection between the Neponset River Greenway’s bicycle and pedestrian path and the residential area that includes the Baker Chocolate Factory condominiums.
“This bridge will create a nice, direct connection between the pathway and residential areas across the river, helping make the greenway easily accessible for everyone,” said DCR Commissioner Richard K. Sullivan Jr.
“This bridge project is another positive step toward opening up the majestic beauty of the Neponset River for the use and enjoyment of area residents,” said State Senator Brian A. Joyce.
"I am very pleased that the Patrick Administration continues to prioritize projects like this along the Neponset River,” said State Representative Linda Dorcena Forry. "This pedestrian bridge will increase access for people throughout our community to enjoy this beautiful natural resource."
Funding for the estimated $843,300 project will come from the Patrick-Murray Administration’s Accelerated Bridge Program. The Baker Square Condominium Trust also is contributing $70,000 toward the cost of construction.
Work is expected to start this winter and be completed in late summer 2011.
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), an agency of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, oversees 450,000 acres of parks and forests, beaches, bike trails, watersheds, dams, and parkways. Led by Commissioner Richard K. Sullivan Jr., the agency’s mission is to protect, promote, and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs, please visit www.mass.gov/dcr. Contact us at [email protected].