Keystone Bridge Stabilization Project Press Release 12/02/25

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For Immediate Release

Date: December 2, 2025

Contact:
Paul Godfrey
Friends of the Quabbin
413-253-5686
413-450-8329 (cell)
godfrey@umass.edu

Friends of the Quabbin Announces Completion of Keystone Bridge Stabilization Project

Belchertown, MA — Friends of the Quabbin (www.FriendsOfQuabbin.org) is pleased to announce the successful completion of the stabilization phase of the historic Keystone Bridge at Gate 30 in New Salem. This essential work marks a major step forward in preserving one of the rarest and most significant dry-stone structures in the Quabbin watershed, but much more has yet to be done, and the Friends are continuing their fundraising efforts. The Friends funded the stabilization project, which cost approximately $120,000, and now efforts are turning to replenishing the organization’s funds. Detailed updates on the project and information on how to donate can be found at www.friendsofquabbin.org/keystone.

Built in 1866 by stoneworker Adolphus Porter, the Keystone Bridge is an extraordinary example of 19th-century dry-stone arch construction. Porter’s method relied entirely on the precision shaping and interlocking of granite blocks—no mortar was used—culminating in the placement of the central keystone that distributes weight and locks the arch into compression. Only a handful of bridges of this type remain in Massachusetts, making the Keystone Bridge a particularly important survivor of early engineering and craftsmanship.

In recent years, the bridge experienced accelerating deterioration, including displacement of the spandrel wall and instability in the roadway fill. To prevent further damage, FOQ partnered closely with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Division of Water Supply Protection to develop and implement a stabilization plan. This collaboration blended FOQ’s fundraising efforts with DCR’s engineering oversight, environmental guidance, and significant in-kind services, resulting in one of the most effective joint preservation efforts undertaken at the Quabbin.

The stabilization work was led by master dry-stone mason Michael Weitzner of Thistle Stone Works (www.thistlestoneworks.com), one of a very small number of practitioners with deep expertise in historic dry-stone arches. His involvement ensured that the work honored the original construction methods and preserved the bridge’s historic character.

Project execution was carried out by Curtis Construction Services of Brookfield, Massachusetts, (www.curtisconstructionservicesma.com/) whose team handled the complex site logistics, rebuilt the compromised wing-wall section, re-established the approach area, and restored the surrounding terrain under the guidance of DCR engineering staff.

The completion of this phase halts ongoing deterioration but does not restore the bridge to full structural integrity. Given its significant historical value, the DCR and Friends of Quabbin are considering several options that would allow the public to safely view the bridge from a distance.  Until this assessment is complete, the bridge will remain closed.

“This project represents the very best of what can be achieved through strong partnership,” said Paul Godfrey of the Friends of the Quabbin Board of Directors. “Friends of the Quabbin and DCR’s combined resources, expertise, and commitment to safeguard a unique piece of Quabbin history. Thanks to the exceptional skills of Michael Weitzner and the dedicated team at Curtis Construction, the Keystone Bridge is stable and protected for the next generation.”

Friends of the Quabbin continues to fundraise to replenish the resources dedicated to this effort and to prepare for the next phase of work. Community members who wish to support this ongoing preservation initiative may do so at www.friendsofquabbin.org/keystone.

About Friends of the Quabbin

The Friends of the Quabbin (www.friendsofquabbin.org) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the natural, cultural, and historical significance of the Quabbin Region. Through advocacy, education, and community partnerships, the organization works to protect the watershed and share its stories with future generations.

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