More about our recent project:

The 150 foot walkway bridge rebuild to the tower was completed in 2025/26 following the walkway collapse in 2023 and subsequent generous donations.  Due to historic and structural regulations on this project, as well as labor and materials, the total cost was a staggering $409,500!  Thanks for all those who contributed!

The engineered plans met the requirement that the structure be maintained as deeded and met the approval of the Maine State Historic Preservation Commission.  The new walkway bridge provides a safer and more resilient structure to better withstand the test of time. 

Calderwood Engineering designed a walkway bridge that appears identical to the previous, but provides numerous upgrades. It was constructed of two treated stringers, laminated-glue timber (glue-lam) beams. All timber match previous dimensions and are of standard pressure treated wooden timber, including the truss rail system. With the exception of the glue-lam stringers, this is all identical to the previous bridge and those on record with the State Historic Commission.

For additional strength and improvement from the original design, there are now two ten inch galvanized steel “U” channels bolted to the inside of both glue-lams their entire length. There is also is a 10” galvanized steel I-beam installed in the center of the walkway the entire 150’ length.

Additionally all wood elements of the upper and lower catwalks were replaced to ensure safety. 

We are delighted with the work done the historic restoration contractor, J. B. Leslie Company, from South Berwick, Maine. The project is nearly completed, save for final painting that is anticpated Spring/Summer 2026.

To see an excerpt from our approved plans, see below.