Stanley Quarter Pond

Location: New Britain, CT

“I have fond memories of coming here to ice skate but you can’t do that when the pond isn’t healthy and not freezing. I’m always thinking about how to ensure longevity in projects we undertake. As a part of this dredging project we’ve made several structural changes that will help keep sediment out and keep water circulation healthy for decades.”
– Erin Stewart, Mayor of New Britain (speaking at the commencement of the project)

The 8-acre Stanley Quarter Park Pond project was a nearly year long project that included the dredging of approximately 19,000 cubic yards of material – no small feat! The result of the work completed has restored a New Britain landmark and revitalized it for both wildlife and recreational use for years to come.

The project began with the building of coffer dams to stop water flow and then placing bulk sandbags in sequence and utilizing pumps to drain the water. Dredging material posed a challenge in loading and hauling due to the geological makeup of the soil and its moisture content – dump trucks had to be specially fit out to handle and safely remove the material (which was transported to Berlin for use in capping a land fill).

During all aspects of the project, great care was taken to minimize impact on both the ecology and wildlife – (fish and turtles were carefully removed and put back at the completion of the work). The end result has fulfilled a long term need to revitalize the pond. It will once again be a place for wildlife to thrive and for park goers to enjoy activities like ice skating and paddle boating, or simply strolling the grounds. Fond memories now await all will visit – for now and well into the future!