[MassHistPres] Guardrails

[Ann Forbes]

>From the description of the guardrails installed, they were probably 
installed by the state.  This type was installed in the South Acton historic 
district several years ago.  From what I recall, under state highway 
guidelines the wood post/weathered (oxidized surface) steel design is what 
is used to meet safety regulations in older or historic areas as it is 
considered more aesthetically compatible than the all-gray steel guardrails. 
If the road along the pond is a state road, then the agency to check with 
would be Mass. Highway Dept.

Anne Forbes
Acton HDC

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Gloria Freeman" <freeannie at comcast.net>
To: "masshistpres" <masshistpres at cs.umb.edu>
Sent: Tuesday, April 03, 2007 10:13 PM
Subject: [MassHistPres] Guardrails




Recently, in Chatham, we were able to convince the owner of one of our most 
historically and architecturally significant houses to save it from 
demolition. Within a week or so of the decision, highway-style guardrails 
were installed on property abutting this house – around a pond area.  The 
guardrails are totally inappropriate for the historic streetscape and the 
area which offers one of our loveliest vistas. The posts are made of wood, 
but the rails are made of an orangish-brown rusted steel, which we are told 
will weather to a brown rusted steel.  Neither this house nor the area is on 
the National Register or in a designated historic district, so that no 
Section 106 review was conducted.



Has anyone had experience with guardrails, especially those which might be 
more appropriate for a historic streetscape? I have seen photographs of a 
steel- backed timber guardrail, which provides a more rustic appearance. 
Perhaps some of you are familiar with it or know of other alternatives. If 
so, we would be grateful for any advice or information regarding the 
material and its source.



Thank you.



Gloria Freeman
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