S106 Paradise Pond Dam, Pare Corp
June 22, 2010
Pare Corporation
8 Blackstone Valley Place
Lincoln RI, 02865
Att: Lauren Hastings
RE: Proposed Dam Repairs, Smith College Paradise Pond, Section 106 Review
Dear Ms. Hastings:
At its meeting of June 21, 2010, the Northampton Historical Commission reviewed the plans
and project information for the repair of the Paradise Pond Dam. The necessary repairs,
including the removal of trees along the dike already completed, and the proposed stabilization
of the embankment will result in some changes that will be different from what the area has
looked like over the past several decades. However, the Commission understands that changes
in dam safety regulations necessitate actions to ensure that dams can safely remain in place for
years to come. The Commission voted unanimously to recognize the historical significance of
Paradise Pond, and support efforts of its preservation by pursuing the repair of the dam and
dike.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Barbara Blumenthal
Chair, Northampton Historical Commission
Cc: Brona Simon, MassHistoric Commission
Gary Hartwell, Smith College, via email