Hall's Pond Sanctuary Reopens With New Accessible Boardwalk In Brookline

BROOKLINE, MA — Hall's Pond Sanctuary and the adjoining Amory Woods have reopened to the public after a renovation project that included a new universally accessible boardwalk, upgraded pathways and other improvements designed to make the conservation area more accessible while preserving its natural habitat.

The project temporarily closed portions of the sanctuary while crews replaced aging boardwalks, improved drainage, renovated overlooks and constructed an accessible route through the property. The work was completed alongside upgrades at nearby Amory Playground, where the town reconstructed tennis courts, renovated the comfort station, improved landscaping and made parking lot improvements.

"The reopening of the fully accessible Hall's Pond boardwalk is a significant milestone for our community," Parks and Open Space Director Milee Pradhan said in a statement.

To celebrate the reopening, the Brookline Department of Public Works will host a community event in partnership with the Friends of Hall's Pond on Wednesday, July 15, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. The family-friendly gathering will feature a brief speaking program, information about the sanctuary's wildlife and restoration efforts, light refreshments and opportunities to explore the boardwalk, woodland trails and pond overlook alongside natural resource staff and volunteers.

Hall's Pond has been a protected conservation area since the 1970s after the town purchased the property in 1975, making it Brookline's first conservation land. Two years later, Brookline acquired the neighboring Amory Woods, creating one of the town's most significant urban wildlife habitats. Together, the properties provide habitat for birds, amphibians, pollinators, and other wildlife while offering residents walking trails, wetlands, gardens, and scenic views of the pond.

The conservation area has undergone several restoration projects over the past two decades. A major ecological restoration completed in the early 2000s improved water quality, restored wetlands, removed invasive plant species and added a boardwalk around the pond, while trail improvements followed in Amory Woods in 2005. Town officials said the latest project represents another significant investment in improving public access while protecting the sanctuary's natural resources.

The Friends of Hall's Pond, established in 1976, continues to work with the town on habitat restoration, environmental education and stewardship efforts throughout the conservation area.

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