Hubbardston, MA – Beals and Thomas, Inc. (B+T) recently provided design services for the Ron Burton Training Village (RBTV) in Hubbardston.
“This hidden gem of a campus has contributed to the physical, emotional, and educational enrichment of thousands of youth for decades. With a focus on leadership and personal growth, supporting the development of the entire human being, RBTV embodies what its namesake Ron Burton Sr. envisioned,” said Regan E. Andreola, RLA, senior landscape architect and associate with Beals and Thomas, Inc.
B+T was originally asked to simply design a retaining wall to accommodate bleachers and a 40-yard dash area between the newly renovated Hale Fitness Center and the football field below. However, the team recognized an opportunity to rethink and repurpose a nearly 8-foot elevation change into a functional amphitheater-style tiered seat-wall and plaza area to encourage gathering. This new design was envisioned to complement the existing campus architecture and to provide a place for campers to watch the field activities below or rest between sets in the weight room.
The project wrapped up last year in time to be utilized by attendees of the 2023 summer session, which included a visit from New England Patriots players.
“Much like the work that RBTV does on a daily basis, landscape architecture provides an opportunity to find the beauty and value in something that may otherwise be overlooked, inspire creativity, and promote solutions for overall betterment,” said Andreola. “This project was a success in part because of a dedicated team of volunteers and donated materials. B+T was honored to have the opportunity to contribute to this truly unique and extraordinary organization.”
