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Historic Cemetery Preservation at Ye Old Burial Ground (Colonial Cemetery) and Munroe Cemetery This project will repair, restore and conserve the grave markers which are in a state of disrepair in Ye Old Burial Ground and Munroe Cemetery. Ye Old Burial Ground and Munroe Cemetery are important parts of Lexington's history, and many tourists visit these cemeteries each year; as custodian, the Town bears the responsibility of preserving and maintaining them. It has been many years since these cemeteries received any significant restoration efforts; each year there are more grave markers that show signs of deterioration and are in jeopardy of being damaged beyond repair. The Town has put the restoration on the operating budget for many years and cut it each year due to lack of funds. Over the past two years the Town hired a stone conservator to assess each cemetery, make recommendations for repairs and restoration and prioritize the work based on severity of damage and safety. The Town hired a contractor to perform some repairs at Ye Old Burial Ground but the scope of the project requires funding outside of the operating budget. The project falls under the Historic Preservation section of the Community Preservation Act and is in line with Town goals for these cemeteries. The project goals and objectives are as follows Perform the necessary treatments to preserve and repair the various grave markers at both cemeteries based on condition and type. Catalog the location, type, condition, and identity of each grave marker. Develop a plan and budget for ongoing maintenance and preservation. Project Value The Town's historic burying grounds are an integral part of its history, providing primary data on its earliest inhabitants and hints as to the quality of their lives. The burying grounds are an important attraction to the tourists who come to town to understand this history. CPA funding will enable the Town to meet its stewardship responsibilities with respect to these important sites. In addition, Munroe Cemetery is both historical and active (about 3 burials per year) and needs to be kept viable for friends, family and visitors. Funding: The project requests $367,000 of CPA money to hire a qualified stone conservator and a qualified stone preservation contractor. Of this amount, $270,000 will be used at Ye Old Burying Ground, and $97,000 will be used at the Munroe Cemetery. All work performed will be under the management and administration of the Department of Public Works. The Community Preservation Committee recommends funding this request.