Historical Commission updates fencing, water-tower and tricentennial plans

At the March 5 meeting the Town of Southborough Historical Commission received updates on multiple town projects connected to historic preservation and upcoming tricentennial celebrations.

Fencing project: Commissioners said the Town Common fencing project, originally funded at about $100,000 through the Community Preservation Committee, is likely to cost substantially more after a VHB assessment. The chair said he has met with the Department of Public Works superintendent, town engineers, and VHB consultants to explore cost-saving options, including engaging a regional vocational metalworking program to fabricate components, and to pursue reimbursement from MassDOT or the original sidewalk contractor for damage dating to a 2019-20 Main Street sidewalk extension.

Water tower and columbarium concept: The chair updated members on a Bridal cemetery water-tower restoration study; the select board provided $5,000 to study restoration, and commissioners reported interest from a national architectural firm in broader design options, including a columbarium. The project is temporarily delayed by winter weather and pending agreement about the town’s willingness to proceed with broader designs beyond simple restoration.

Tricentennial planning: Michelle Hoganson reported that tricentennial organizers are coordinating multiple events—parade, house tour, drone show, cemetery reenactments and a combined music festival—and that the Commission should expect more outreach; commissioners were asked to encourage participation and attend the tricentennial meeting on March 11.

Next steps: the commission will continue to seek cost-control measures for the fence project, investigate vocational fabrication options, and await clearer direction on the water-tower study before committing further funds.