Point of Graves Wall Replacement Project

The retaining wall at the corner of Peirce Island Road and Mechanic Street for the Point of Graves Burying Ground, the city's oldest cemetery, was damaged by a vehicle collision and needs repair.

But because this waterfront cemetery is also at risk from sea level rise, as shown in the images from the January 2024 storm below, the project requires more historical research and consideration before replacement or repair. The City's Cemetery Committee is in the process of discussing the project and received an update at their August meeting. DPW Project Manager Christine Sproviero reviewed the 90% plans with the Committee. The project is currently being surveyed to define the footprint limits and the property lines where the wall and fence delineate the cemetery. The City expects the survey to be completed by the end of August. The plan now eliminates the two extra pedestrian access points as the connecting walkway would require some unwanted excavation. The design is intended to look like stacked stone (including dark mortar) and granite stone caps. Perforated drainage under the wall will help direct any water to the City drainage system. In September the donation of funds will go to the City Council for approval. The City is hoping to complete the bidding process this fall. Once construction starts an archaeologist will be onsite, as required by the State.

In the interim, the Department of Public Works has placed a concrete barrier at the intersection.