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Sudbury commission presses DPW for more design details on Sherman’s Bridge reconstruction
Summary
The Sudbury Historical Commission asked the DPW for full architectural drawings and pressed material, railing and environmental concerns for the proposed Sherman’s Bridge reconstruction, and residents requested an additional public hearing once design changes are complete.
The Sudbury Historical Commission on Feb. 10 urged the Town Department of Public Works to provide full architectural drawings for the proposed Sherman’s Bridge reconstruction, saying a single rendering in the DPW response letter is insufficient for the Commission’s review.
The commission’s chair, Chris Hagger, said the response to the commission’s earlier letter included only one rendering and no architectural plans; Vice-Chair Michael Wallace noted a different rendering appears on the DPW website. Commissioners said having complete architectural drawings would help them assess materials, finishes and safety implications.
Why it matters: Sherman’s Bridge connects local neighborhoods and crosses a river; the commission’s review focuses on preserving historic character and minimizing environmental and safety impacts. Members raised questions about exposed glulam timbers, guardrail design and finish choices that could affect both the bridge’s appearance and local aquatic life.
Commissioners debated specifics of the proposed materials and finishes. Hagger raised the aging and color of glulam members, noting exposed glulam would display a yellow pine color unless covered. William Andreas recommended a copper-based wood treatment that avoids chromated copper arsenate (CCA/arsenic). The group discussed the direction of exterior boards (diagonal or vertical preferred to horizontal), and Andreas suggested consulting the glulam manufacturer for recommended coverings.
On railings, Hagger said the SHC favored steel-backed timber guardrails; Andreas asked that any metal posts be coated in a National Parks brown finish. Commissioners discussed replacing a proposed four-piece railing with a three-piece design by using wider boards, but Steven Greene emphasized compliance with national spacing standards. Most commissioners ultimately indicated they were comfortable with the proposed four-piece railing as drawn.
Public comments underscored the demand for further review. Resident Doug Stasta asked for another public hearing after design changes are completed so the community can see finalized materials and plans. Alyssa Brown, an ambassador for the Suasco Wild and Scenic River Stewardship Council, objected to use of copper-treated elements on the bridge citing concern about toxicity affecting aquatic life.
Next steps: The commission expects to review finalized or modified renderings and recommended manufacturer guidance on coverings; residents pressed for an additional public hearing once those materials are available. The DPW has so far provided a single rendering and the commission continues to request more detailed design documentation.
