Sweet Auburn: The Magazine of the Friends of Mount Auburn Inspiring All Who Visit | Page 4

Improving Mount Auburn’s Entry Experience for our Visitors By Bree Harvey, Vice President of Cemetery & Visitor Services and David Barnett, President & CEO Visitors to Mount Auburn Cemetery this spring, summer and fall will undoubtedly notice an unusual amount of work activity as they enter our gates. As part of our long-term plan to improve the visitor experience as one first enters Mount Auburn, we are carrying out a number of integrated projects designed to both improve the functionality and preserve the historic character of this area. Our vision for the “front entry precinct” includes: • A more welcoming entry, with clear orientation tools to assist visitors and clients from the moment they arrive on the grounds; • Improved vehicular and pedestrian access, making travel through this area safer and more convenient; • The preservation of our historically-significant structures; and • An enhanced landscape that highlights the strength and breadth of Mount Auburn’s horticultural collections and high standards of excellence. Much of this work has been made possible by contributed support received through the Friends of Mount Auburn. We are fortunate to have received a grant of $130,000 from the Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund, which we are working to match with additional private gifts, for the preservation of our Egyptian Revival Gatehouse and adjoining cast-iron fence. The first phase of work will be the preservation of the iron fence and gate this summer, with restoration of the Gatehouse planned for 2016. We initiated the facelift to the front entry area this spring with the removal of overgrown plantings surrounding the Administration Building. Prior to replanting, soil was excavated in order to correct problems with soil drainage and moisture seepage into the building. Broken drainage pipes were replaced, a fabric moisture barrier was installed, and improved soil was brought in. We are working with Landscape Architect Craig Halvorson to install a new landscape of low shrubs and perennials, with a few specimen trees and Victorian-style planters, that more appropriately displays the historic building and directs families and clients to the cemetery services office. At the same time, we are updating the interior space where our cemetery services staff meets with families. Adminstration Building, April 8, 2015.Though we try to provide a welcoming environment for families and visitors, overgrown plantings surrounding our Administration Building had made it hard to even find our front door. 2 | Sweet Auburn