From the Office of Senator Kerry

Monday, July 2, 2001

Washington, DC -- Senators John F. Kerry and Edward M. Kennedy announced today that the Senate Appropriations Committee has approved $3.751 million in funding to restore and preserve the Bunker Hill Monument in the Boston National Historic Park. The funds are contained in the Senate Interior Appropriations Bill for the fiscal year beginning October 1. Senator Kerry said, "The Bunker Hill Monument serves as proud reminder of the bravery and commitment of our founding fathers. This funding will help preserve this monument for generations to come."

"I'm pleased that the Bunker Hill Monument, the oldest major monument in the United States, will be repaired," said Senator Kennedy. "These repairs will improve accessibility to the Monument and readily welcome disabled visitors along with school groups and tourists."

The Bunker Hill Monument was built between 1825 and 1843 and is a national historic landmark. The Bunker Hill Museum, an 8,000 sq. ft. three-story historic brick building is located directly across the street from the site on the Freedom Trail. The Museum, which has an excellent view of the Monument, is operated on a volunteer basis.

Although over 150,000 visitors frequent the site every year, the interpretive facilities are seriously inadequate because the Monument has not received major rehabilitation for almost a century. The current site, lodge and restrooms are not accessible to persons with disabilities. In addition, icing of the monument entry and stairs from water infiltration creates potentially hazardous, icy conditions.

The federal funds will be used for much needed repairs to preserve the Bunker Hill Monument, the adjacent granite lodge and surrounding 4-acre site. The Bunker Hill Museum renovation will include new electrical, heating and air conditioning systems, roof repair, window repair, accessible entrance and new elevator, accessible public rest rooms, new fire egress, repair and repainting of interior walls, new security and sprinkler system, interior lighting, and exhibits.