Keystone Bridge Stabilization Project Press Release 10/15/25
Reminder – the site is closed to the public, please check here or our Facebook page for updates!
Media Contact:
Paul Godfrey
Friends of the Quabbin
413-253-5686
413-450-8329 (cell)
godfrey@umass.edu
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friends of the Quabbin is working with the Department of Conservation and Recreation to Stabilize Historic Keystone Bridge at Gate 30
Site will be closed to the public during this project, updates being posted online
Belchertown, MA – [October 15, 2025] — The Friends of the Quabbin is announcing that work is set to begin on stabilizing the Keystone Bridge at Gate 30 of the Quabbin Reservoir. The historic stone bridge, built in 1866, has been showing signs of significant collapse and will undergo critical stabilization efforts to preserve this important landmark. The bridge was constructed by Adolphus Porter, who was hired by the town of New Salem to build the bridge from Millington to Orange, and he was paid $37.50, which would be equivalent to $764 in today’s dollars.
Since 2023, and the initial discovery of the collapsed spandrel wall, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has restricted all site access because the collapse poses a significant risk to public safety. Those curious on work progress are encouraged to visit the Friends of the Quabbin website at www.FriendsofQuabbin.org/keystone and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/foquabbin) where updates and photographs will be posted.
The Friends of the Quabbin has contracted with two firms, Curtis Construction Services out of Brookfield, who will be advised by free-stone masonry international specialist, Michael Weitzner from Brattleboro, Vermont, to carry out the stabilization work. Project oversight is being provided by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Water Supply Protection. Work is expected to be completed by December, contingent upon weather and site conditions.
The entire project is being funded completely through donations that are being made to the Friends of the Quabbin. “This effort is only possible because of the generosity of our members and supporters,” said Friends of the Quabbin spokesperson Paul Godfrey. “We continue to seek additional donations to help ensure that this historic structure is protected for generations to come.”
Because of the Keystone Bridge’s location in a highly sensitive environmental area, extensive precautions are being taken to protect the surrounding landscape and habitat. DCR is coordinating closely with the New Salem Conservation Commission and the Massachusetts Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program to ensure that the project upholds the highest environmental protection standards.
“This is about more than just saving a bridge,” added Godfrey. “It’s about protecting our shared heritage while respecting the natural beauty and ecological importance of the Quabbin and its watershed.”
For updates on the Keystone Bridge stabilization project, or to make a donation in support of the effort, please visit www.friendsofquabbin.org/keystone or follow the Friends of the Quabbin on Facebook at www.facebook.com/foquabbin.
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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