Master Plan Incorporates Green Infrastructure, Multi-Modal Roadways
Halvorson | Tighe & Bond Studio has been collaborating with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) on a master plan for Herter Park, part of the Charles River Reservation in the Brighton neighborhood of Boston. Once the site of the Charles River Speedway, a horse carriage racing track in existence from 1898 to 1959, the 56-acre Herter Park is the largest and the most heavily programmed park in the Charles River Basin.
Featuring a playground with wading pool, outdoor amphitheater, and a kayak rental facility, as well as a network of bicycle and pedestrian paths, Herter Park is a popular recreational destination and the epicenter of the renowned Head of the Charles Regatta and numerous other events.
A key master plan recommendation is the reconfiguration (“road diet”) of adjacent Soldiers Field Road, along with multi-modal improvements, which will greatly improve community access to the park and expand the open space. The plan proposes the rehabilitation of Herter Center, a currently vacant 1950s architectural landmark, as a shared facility for a new high school rowing program and support space for the improved Herter Amphitheater.
Realigned park paths, improved high-use event lawns, and reconfigured parking areas will improve the visitor experience, resolve circulation conflicts, and facilitate the heavy park usage. The integration of green infrastructure to manage stormwater, as well as introduction of larger native vegetation habitats will provide great environmental benefits. Many of the plan recommendations have emerged from the Plan’s robust public engagement process and have met with positive reception by the community.
Services Snapshot
Halvorson | Tighe & Bond Studio provided master planning services to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation in support of the revitalization of Herter Park. Halvorson’s master plan includes recommendations for the reconfiguration of Soldiers Field Road, as well as realigned park paths, new green infrastructure, and improvements to site facilities.
