The Lower Basin Barracks Modernization Project, located within the Lower Basin of the Charles River Reservation, involved the renovation and expansion of the historic Lower Lock Gatehouse (the Lower Basin Barracks building), the demolition of the Stop Plank Garage, and the conversion of much of the paved portions of the site to landscaped public parkland as a gateway to Boston’s Esplanade. The project is a Paul & Niki Tsongas Award recipient.
Overview
This 15,000-square-foot project focused on the adaptive reuse of the Lower Lock Gatehouse building, consolidating State Police Troops and accommodating present and future mission needs. The design preserved the historic character while modernizing the structure and creating a public parkland as a gateway to Boston’s Esplanade.
The revitalized Lower Basin Barracks preserved the gatehouse’s history and optimized it for public use. The expansion includes a public lobby, restroom, a versatile community room, and restored historic elements such as a new insulated roof, façade restoration, energy-efficient glazing, and interior renovations that encompass office spaces, a detention area, fitness area, and locker rooms.
Contribution
Epsilon led the local and state permitting for the project, including review under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA). The project also required authorization under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and the City of Boston Wetlands Ordinance, as well as a new Waterways Licenses from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection under the Massachusetts Public Waterfront Act (M.G.L. c.91) and the Waterways Regulations. Epsilon negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding with the Massachusetts Historical Commission and secured design review approval from the Boston Landmarks Commission.
Achievement
As a result, the project received a Paul & Niki Tsongas Award, its highest honor. The project was also recognized in 2023, receiving the prestigious Officer Station Design Gold Award in the Law Enforcement Facilities III Category. The original building, the Lower Lock Gatehouse, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.