Watertown Project Summary

The Watertown Change Club project created more accessible and aesthetically pleasing public spaces for Watertown residents to enjoy physical activity opportunities. This project, aligned with current improvements by the City of Watertown Planning Department and Watertown Parks and Recreation, focused on the Pinnacle Trail at Thompson Park, right in the heart of Watertown.

The objectives of this project were to 1) add comprehensive signage throughout the park, 2) post a trail sign with the full distance of the trail and incremental distance markers along the Pinnacle Trail, 3) enhance the safety and visibility of staircases along the park trails, and 4) create a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing space for trail users.

These improvements to the Pinnacle Trail will included adding benches, trail markers, a dog walker’s disposal station and additional park signage. While many of the city’s improvements focused on projects geared toward younger residents who are already physically active, this project and the enhancements to the Pinnacle Trail allow the trail to be safer, more accessible, and cleaner for residents who may be less physically active due to age, ability, or even lack of knowledge about park resources. Benches allow users an opportunity to rest when needed and mile marker signs help familiarize users with the full length of the trail and allow them the opportunity to decide how far to walk based on their ability and interest. Additional signs help identify important park resources and facilities such as restroom locations. As a result of these improvements, The Pinnacle Trail at Thompson Park is a place for all to enjoy activity outdoors, including senior citizens, caregivers of small children, dog walkers, and community residents of all ages and ability levels.