PLINY’S ALLÉE

Boylston, MA

Pliny’s Allée at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill provides a pedestrian connection between the main campus building and the new children’s garden, The Ramble. Previously, a grass path between the rows of existing and beloved mature oak trees was not usable for all visitors. Aside from the poor surface material for those with limited mobility, the steep slope exceeded ADA guidelines.

Ryan Associates was tasked with creating a fully accessible pathway without damaging the roots of the trees, part of the campus-wide effort to create equitable circulation routes.

To accomplish both of these goals, we designed a slightly elevated boardwalk structure using special pin foundations that provide support while minimizing disruption below grade. Between gradually sloped portions of the boardwalk are flat landings, two of which have benches, while the other is centered on a cross-axis with adjacent gardens.

Black Locust lumber, a locally grown and more sustainable choice than tropical hardwood, was used to create the 270’ pathway. Three hundred new Witch Alder (Fothergilla) shrubs supplement the existing understory plants and provide both spring flowers and fall color.

Pliny’s Fountain has long been located at the northern terminus of the allée, within a rocky and uneven terrace. This area also underwent extensive renovations, including regrading and resurfacing the area surrounding the antique millstone water feature and fully reconstructing the fountain substructure and mechanics. New granite paving and seating frame the jumping-jet focal point and complete the space.