The Revitalist

The Boston Landmarks Commission has approved a plan for the Pinebank site in the Jamaica Pond Park. The derelict mansion was demolished in January (photos at the Friends of Pinebank, along with angry commentary). The new park area will feature a granite outline of the mansion's foundations, flush with the grass, a low brick wall that mimics the profile of the mansion's front windows to be used as a bench, and restoration of a historic stair from the pond up to the site. The site will be mostly grass lawn and is meant to be a quiet, contemplative area set apart from the park's usual hustle and bustle. 

The city obviously feels a obligation to do something to commemorate the historic site, whether it comes from a sense of responsibility neglected or a need to appease angry voters. They have been open about sharing designs and process with the community, who certainly aren't giving them a free pass. One of the more contentious issues at the recent community meeting was the restoration of historic views of the pond and boathouse from the site, which will involve selective pruning and removal of trees. One member of Friends of Jamaica Pond suggested that a new tree be planted in the park for each one removed.

Previous post on the effort to save Pinebank.