The two-and-one-half mile Freedom Trail is being modernized as a polymerized path of brick-looking strip on the parts of the trail that are not actual brick.
“Over 4 million people enjoy the Freedom Trail and our great city’s historic sites annually,” said Suzanne Taylor, executive director of the Freedom Trail Foundation in a press release. “The Department of Public Works’ new brick-resembling treatment will stand the test of time and help residents and visitors navigate the Freedom Trail to experience each of the Trail’s 16 sites year-round”
The polymer section of the Freedom Trail is an investment that will save money for the City of Boston, as the paving will obviate painting the faux brick each year. The City estimates that the markings can last up to eight years before requiring replacement.
Completion of this project is estimated to be late this month. Charlestown, by the seaport; the North End, by the bridge; and downtown crossing, along the shopping center are the locations where the nearly 2,000 feet of red, white and blue-grey strip is being rolled out.
The Freedom Trail is mostly marked out in double-file bricks, and the trail begins at the Boston Common and ends at the Bunker Hill Monument. Established in 1951, the trail was the idea of journalist Bill Schofield, who wanted to link the many well-preserved historical sites of Boston into a coherent walking tour.
