NAHANT — The Town received $25,000 in earmark funding from the Healey-Driscoll Administration to facilitate the restoration of the Calantha Sears Gazebo at Bailey’s Hill Park.
The funds came from Gov. Maura Healey’s announcement of the $61.01 billion budget that was passed by the Massachusetts Legislature and signed by the Governor in early July for Fiscal Year 2026. Recipients of this funding can now connect with the appropriate state agency to facilitate accessing it.
Back in 1975, the Town was awarded a grant to implement the construction of the original Bailey’s Hill gazebo. Later, in 2005, it was dedicated to Sears, curator emerita for the Nahant Historical Society (NHS). Sears died at the age of 103 on Dec. 3, 2024.
Sears was part of numerous organizations and committees throughout her life in Nahant, including the Bicentennial Committee and NHS, which was founded on Jan. 18, 1975. She was also the first president of the NHS board and volunteered until 2024. Sears devoted her time to being a librarian for the Nahant Public Library and the public schools.
Town Administrator Alison Nieto noted that work on the gazebo’s restoration is expected to begin sometime by spring.
Department of Public Works Superintendent Zach Taylor echoed that sentiment, saying the Town aims to put the project out to bid this winter, with a tentative start date in the spring. He also said that the scope of work is geared toward preventative maintenance for the structure.
“The time has come for some rehabilitation. I think it’s been roughly 10 years since the last rehabilitation of the structure,” Taylor said. “It’s just been worn down over time.”
He added that the Town is thankful for the funding in order to “restore a historic landmark.”
“The Town is always grateful to the state for being included in earmark funding that will help us with capital improvements,” Nieto said.
Select Board Chair Rob Tibbo said, “I couldn’t be more pleased. I think it needs attention, and I consider it a great asset to the Town… I’m glad we’re moving forward with it.”
