Grafton – On Saturday, May 2, at 11:00 a.m. Grafton officials held a groundbreaking ceremony for Phase II of the Grafton Town House Full Accessibility and Assembly Project. A new addition is being added to the rear of the iconic and historic 1863 Town House on its quintessential New England Town Common that will make the building fully accessible and usable for all visitors, including physically disabled or handicapped individuals.
Attending the groundbreaking ceremony were many town officials and volunteers who were involved with making this project happen.
When complete, for the first time in its 152 year history, full access and use of the iconic Grafton Town House will be available to all who may wish to enjoy an event or attend a meeting in the restored 3rd floor “Great Hall” with its still intact, original barrel vaulted ceiling.
Over the past four years, there was much debate and discussion on different plan iterations developed to meet the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for this final phase of the Full Accessibility and Assembly Project.
The project also had to meet the mandated requirements of the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAAB). The rear addition will contain a full service elevator providing access to all floors of the building and a new, fire safe egress stairwell meeting fire and life safety code requirements. Other interior improvements include: sprinklers, fire alarm/life safety systems, HVAC and electrical service upgrades. Interior staircases will also be rebuilt and toilet rooms added and/or rebuilt to meet ADA guidelines.
