by Julie Gowel ·
Friday, May 1, 2026
The Select Board voted unanimously to approve a proposal to renovate the patio adjacent to the Harvard General Store at its meeting on Tuesday evening, April 28. The plan was presented by building owners Matt Marolda and Betsy Starr and outlined their intent to privately fund upgrades to the outdoor community space that they believe would improve accessibility, safety, and overall usability of the area between the parking lot and cemetery.
In an interview with the Press, Marolda said his and Starr’s primary goal is to enhance an area they view as central to the community. “This is such a cool space,” said Marolda. “The problem is it’s not super accessible, and it could be a little bit nicer.”
The patio, which sits on town-owned land, has become a popular destination for General Store patrons who enjoy the venue’s outdoor dining, movie nights, and other events. However, its current gravel surface and proximity to the parking lot present challenges, particularly for those with limited mobility.
“A few months after Matt and Betsy bought the building, we sat down with them and talked about some of the functional deficiencies of the General Store,” said business owner Scott Hayward in an interview with the Press. “Matt came up with this idea of putting down pavers, and we think it’s going to make the patio much more accessible.”
The proposed redesign emphasizes four key principles: accessibility, safety, permeability, and nonpermanence. The plan proposed to the Select Board showed two phases to the renovation. Phase one, expected to begin in the first few weeks of May, would take approximately two weeks to complete and includes most of the patio. Marolda said phase two would take only a week to complete, but since it includes the area abutting the General Store, he will need to coordinate with building renovations such as the new fire escape being installed adjacent to the patio.
Marolda worked with local landscape designer Mamie Wytrwal on a concept to install hardscape pavers to replace two-thirds of the existing gravel, allowing for easier navigation and more functional seating. Additionally, planters featuring green screening to create a buffer between the patio and the adjacent parking area were proposed, as well as new, modular furniture added to the current picnic table seating options.
When given the opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback on the initiative, Select Board member Ahmet Corapcioglu suggested Marolda and Starr confer with the town’s Commission on Disabilities to ensure accessibility. Eric Ward expressed his desire to see a designated walking path on either side of the planters to facilitate safe navigation of the area between the patio and parking lot. Eve Wittenberg asked if native species could be used for the planters.
Marolda and Starr responded favorably to all comments made by the board and the vote to approve the project commenced in under 10 minutes.
“I think everyone feels a sense of pride in the Common and in the store,” said Katie Croyle, manager of the General. “We all stand on the shoulders of the people who come before us. We are stewards of this town, this land, and we look out for each.”