In 2011, the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) engaged Kleinfelder to conduct a feasibility study for the Lower Basin State Police Barracks. The barracks are located in the Lower Lock Guardhouse, a National Register-listed Italian Renaissance Revival building. Our work focused on the ability of the site and its buildings to support the technological and square footage needs of the State Police, while promoting historic preservation and cultural resources stewardship.

Multiple Stakeholders Involved

Aside from the historic nature of the Lower Lock Guardhouse, this project presented many challenges. First, the site is owned by the Department of Conservation (DCR), but used collaboratively by DCR and DCAMM. Secondly, DCAMM is in the initial stages of planning upgrades for the barracks and troops, resulting in the study’s broad parameters, which impacted how to approach the stewardship of historic preservation. Lastly, the site had been identified for potential rehabilitation as part of mitigation requirements for the Central Artery project.

A Roadmap to Restoration or Rehabilitation

Kleinfelder produced a guidance document that outlined the proper approach to restoration or rehabilitation of the site using the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. Kleinfelder documented the site and Lower Lock Guardhouse using laser scans to produce a 3D plan that the client can use in the future. Regarding historic preservation stewardship, Kleinfelder evaluated and assessed the building’s character-defining features, its relationship to the Charles River basin, and its former use as a lock house.

Project Results

The guidance document helps the client determine the best use of the site as the project develops. Furthermore, we evaluated the condition of the structure and its mechanical systems and outlined an environmental regulatory compliance strategy, which proved complex due to the site’s prominent location and National Register status.

Project Details

Location:
Boston, Massachusetts

Owner:
Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance