BOND Building Construction, Inc. (BOND Building), a premier full-service construction management and general contracting firm, has been awarded the 2021 Preservation Massachusetts Paul & Niki Tsongas Award for its major renovation project at the historic city hall building at 718 Main Street in Fitchburg, Massachusetts.
Since 1988, Preservation Massachusetts’ highest honor, the Paul & Niki Tsongas Award, has recognized the very best in historic preservation efforts, individuals, and achievements across the Commonwealth. BOND Building received the award at the 2021 Preservation Awards, celebrated virtually on Thursday, May 20. The event coincided with National Historic Preservation Month, which celebrates the nation’s heritage through historic places.
“The 2021 Preservation Award recipients embody the possibilities that preservation creates for our communities, our citizens, and our future,” said Jim Igoe, President of Preservation Massachusetts. “Preservation is about more than a historic building or landscape—it preserves people’s stories, the places where they live and work, and lessons for the future. We can tell a more complete American story by including all people, places, and possibilities. This year’s award recipients represent the strong foundations and supportive collaborations helping make that a reality.”
The Fitchburg City Hall renovation project is a prominent component of the city’s ongoing downtown economic development that is aimed at revitalizing the local community. The renovation has transformed the building into a modern and efficient workplace for city administrators to better serve Fitchburg residents.
“The historical significance of the building is so important to the people of Fitchburg,” said Mayor of Fitchburg Stephen L. DiNatale during the award ceremony. “This is a city hall for all.”
The exterior building has been fully restored to its original state with the interior renovated to accommodate 14 administrative departments, including the Office of the Mayor. An adjacent building that was formerly a bank, donated by Bank of America, has been converted into a legislative building and now houses the City Council Chambers.
“Restoring and preserving historic structures is a privilege and responsibility that we take very seriously, and we’re grateful for this recognition” said Pamela Bailey, Senior Project Manager at BOND Building and lead on the project. “The building was completed with meticulous planning and extensive collaboration with owners. We’re extremely proud to have delivered a building that stands as a point of pride for the city, and that pays tribute to the history made inside.”