Bromfield senior Peter Donaldson won the unanimous approval of the Board of Selectmen this week for his plan to build a handicapped-accessible walkway at the town beach. The walkway will go from a relocated handicapped parking space to the concrete slab in front of the beach house. Donaldson is taking on the job as both his senior community service and his Eagle Scout project.
Donaldson designed the walkway himself, in accordance with all legal grade and width requirements. He has taken it to both the building commissioner and the Parks and Recreation Commission for approval. He said he plans to build it with help from other Scouts and friends.
Although Donaldson acknowledged that going beyond the slab would be difficult for anyone in a wheelchair, he said, “You can still enjoy the beach from there.” He explained that roll-out pads, which could be stored in the beach house, would allow travel farther onto the beach. Getting those pads, he said, might be a project for future Eagle Scouts.
Donaldson estimates the project will cost about $4,000, although he hopes that donated materials will reduce the amount he needs to raise. He said the Harvard Woman’s Club and the Lions Club have offered their support.
