Our nation’s infrastructure evolves rapidly, but we also try to preserve what we can of the past. Restoring old pathways and other structures that have been weathered over the years gives us a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history. When we work to restore historical structures, our goal is to preserve the past. 

Research and Planning

Whether a pathway winds through the country or the heart of a historic city, they have been a part of the past. They have seen years of people walking across them to their jobs, to cultural events, and more. The decision to restore rather than replace is usually made after meticulous research into the significance of the path, examining historical records and talking to community members about how the walkway has been a part of their lives. 

Even after a community decides on restoration, more research is needed. The original layout and materials are important to the restoration project. Consultations with historians and preservation architects may be needed to ensure the pathway is preserved accurately. 

The current condition of the structure is also important. Careful inspections should be completed to ensure that the restoration project not only brings the structure to its original state, but there may be structural updates needed to ensure the safety of visitors. Accessibility may need to be taken into account for other upgrades. This research and assessment process allows your construction company to choose the correct materials and plan adequately for the restoration project. 

Restoration

All of the planning leads to the most important step – restoration. During this process, skilled craftsmen and construction experts use their specialized knowledge to bring the historical structure back to life as a useful and educational piece of history. 

Often, the restoration process involves creating and installing informative signs about the significance of the project. When visitors arrive, this helps them understand the importance of the pathway or structure and further immerse themselves into the experience. The community or government organization sponsoring the project should work with the construction team to schedule ongoing maintenance and work with the community to better educate the public on the property and the history surrounding it. Restoring historical pathways and structures is more than just about construction. It’s a way to discover the past and inspire the future. For this, your community needs to ensure that they hire a construction company that appreciates the significance of history and has the knowledge and skill to preserve it. When you’re ready to start a restoration project, Nature Bridges can help.