A historical photo shows well-manicured slopes at Bartlet Mall.

Bartlet Mall Restoration Project

A 2005 park restoration project did much to return the Bartlet Mall to its originally conceived condition where simplicity of design and carefully calculated plantings characterized this open space centrally located at a gateway to downtown Newburyport. The general goals of the 2005 project included restoration of the historic resource, improvement of accessibility and increasing passive recreation opportunities.
 
A new restoration project continues efforts to revitalize American landscape architect Charles Eliot's vision for the park by carrying out the phases outlined below. This project relies heavily on private grants and donations. You can make a difference by making a donation in any amount.
Or, you may mail a donation to
Newburyport Parks Conservancy
P.O. Box 1211
​Newburyport, MA  01950
​

Phase I

  • Water quality cleanup
  • Repair damage to the grass banks
  • ​Mow grassy slopes to achieve a manicured appearance
  • Clear vegetation from waters edge and
  • Define a broad beach of local sandy gravel around the pond as it was historically.

Phase II

  • Prune and plant trees according to the original tree planting plan to restore historically intended views clear across the pond
  • Reinstall Allée of Elms on the 2nd level of the Mall
  • Extend the Promenade to Auburn Street
  • Renovate, reconfigure basketball court and play area

Phase III

  • Restore central "Swan Fountain"
  • Restore Taggard Fountain, positioning it into the High/Auburn St. corner of the park