September 22, 2023 Historic Boston Launches Feasibility Study for the Alford Street Pumping Station in Charlestown
Historic Boston is excited to announce the launch of the Feasibility Study for the Alford Street Pumping Station in Charlestown this month. Situated on the banks of the Mystic River, the Alford Street Pumping Station holds a unique place in Boston’s history. For those unfamiliar with this hidden gem, we invite you to read our previous blog posts: “Do You Know Where the Alford Street Pumping Station Is?” and “$200,000 Grant Funds Alford Street Pumping Station Study”.
A Brief History
The Alford Street Pumping Station, with its distinctive architecture, stands as a testament to Boston’s commitment to water and sewer management in the late 19th century. Built in 1895, this historic structure has weathered over a century of change and adaptation. It serves as a reminder of the city’s first generation of public buildings dedicated to water infrastructure.
Owned by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA), the pumping station has, in recent years, largely remained vacant and underutilized. It has received only sporadic maintenance to its underground facilities, while its above-ground architectural beauty has faded with time. Restoring this building is a monumental task that requires considerable investment.
With funding obtained from the Mass Gaming Commission in collaboration with the City of Everett and Fort Point Associates, Historic Boston is embarking on an ambitious project to assess the feasibility of preserving and repurposing this historic site for future generations.
The Feasibility Study
The Feasibility Study for the Alford Street Pumping Station will be a thorough examination of the site’s current condition, historical significance, and potential for adaptive reuse. This study will encompass several key aspects:
1) Structural Assessment: Experts will evaluate the building’s structural integrity and architectural features, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities for restoration.
2) Historical Significance: Researchers will delve into the history of the pumping station, unearthing its role in Boston’s growth and development.
3) Sea Wall Evaluation: Another critical aspect of the study, led by Fort Point Associates, involves evaluating the structural stability of the sea wall on which the building sits. Additionally, a conceptual design will be developed to extend the Harborwalk, connecting Boston to the Wynn Casino in Everett.
4) Sustainability and Innovation: The study will explore innovative, sustainable uses for the pumping station, potentially transforming it into a vibrant community space or educational center.
Preserving History, Building the Future
The Alford Street Pumping Station has the potential to be more than a historic relic. It can become a dynamic hub, linking the past with the present and inspiring future generations. Historic Boston is excited to embark on this journey, and we invite you to stay tuned for updates on our progress. Stay connected with Historic Boston through our website and social media channels for updates on this project and opportunities to get involved. Together, we can breathe new life into this historic gem, ensuring it remains a source of inspiration for generations to come.