The Newton City Public Facilities Committee convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss the restoration of the War Memorial stairs, a project that has faced delays since its initial proposal in 2019. The committee recommended an appropriation of $214,300, which includes funding for architecture, engineering, and investigative expenses necessary for the first phase of the restoration.

The War Memorial stairs, part of the historic Newton City Hall built in 1932, have deteriorated due to water infiltration, leading to concerns about safety and structural integrity. The proposed restoration aims to address these issues by waterproofing and rehabilitating the stairs, as well as installing new handrails to comply with current building codes. The project is eligible for historic resource funding, as the City Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Committee members expressed frustration over the five-year delay in moving forward with the project. Concerns were raised about the unknown conditions beneath the stairs, which complicated previous funding requests. The pandemic and opposition from city councilors further hindered progress. However, the committee is optimistic that the current approach, which focuses on investigative work, will provide clarity on the project's scope and costs.

The committee voted unanimously to approve the funding request, emphasizing the importance of restoring the stairs to honor local veterans and maintain the integrity of a significant city landmark. Discussions also included the need for accessibility improvements as part of the restoration, ensuring that the project meets the needs of all community members.

As the project moves forward, the committee plans to keep the community informed and will seek additional funding sources for future phases of the restoration. The urgency of the project was underscored by the deteriorating condition of the stairs, which committee members noted do not reflect well on the city’s historic assets.