Commission approves in‑kind brick walkway repair at Museum of Springfield History

The Historic Commission approved an application to replace a deteriorated brick/granite walkway at the Museum of Springfield History, 85 Chestnut Street, on Sept. 4. The applicant said the existing granite banding had failed because the original pieces were too thin and were installed in winter bedding; the proposed work will use thicker granite where needed and will reuse salvageable pieces as insets and edging.

Staff and commissioners discussed the need for a durable solution that retains historic character. The applicant said the replacement would be ‘‘in kind’’ with similar patterning and that some granite will be saved and inset as a decorative detail. The commission approved the application and noted the occasional vehicular use to access the museum for special events; materials and layout will reflect that mixed pedestrian/occasional vehicle loading.