Preserving historic structures requires more than routine maintenance. It demands careful planning, skilled craftsmanship, and respect for the significance of the property itself. National Facility Contractors recently partnered on the renovation of the historic Chimes Tower at Evergreen Washelli Cemetery in Seattle, helping restore one of the cemetery’s most recognizable landmarks while also improving pedestrian access with the installation of a new sidewalk.
Originally constructed in 1950, the Chimes Tower serves as a memorial dedicated to veterans and has remained an important feature within the cemetery for decades. Over time, exposure to Pacific Northwest weather conditions caused visible deterioration to both the structure and surrounding pathways, creating the need for a comprehensive restoration effort.
Restoring a Historic Landmark
The renovation project focused on preserving the appearance and integrity of the tower while improving safety and accessibility throughout the surrounding area. Work included structural restoration, exterior improvements, surface repairs, and site enhancements designed to extend the life of the historic monument.
National Facility Contractors coordinated multiple aspects of the project to ensure work progressed efficiently while respecting the active cemetery environment and the importance of the memorial itself.
Key project components included:
- Restoration and repair of the historic Chimes Tower exterior
- Surface preparation and refinishing of deteriorated areas
- Concrete demolition and replacement for damaged walkways
- Installation of a new pedestrian sidewalk surrounding the tower
- Site grading and cleanup to improve drainage and accessibility
- Careful coordination to minimize disruption to cemetery visitors and services
Historic restoration projects require a high level of detail because even minor inconsistencies can impact the appearance and long-term durability of the structure. NFC worked closely with project stakeholders to maintain the character of the original tower while upgrading surrounding infrastructure to current standards.
Improving Accessibility and Safety
In addition to restoring the tower itself, the project included construction of a new sidewalk designed to improve pedestrian access around the memorial area. Uneven or aging walkways can create both safety concerns and accessibility challenges, particularly in high-traffic public spaces like cemeteries and memorial parks.
The new concrete sidewalk created:
- Safer pedestrian movement throughout the memorial area
- Improved accessibility for visitors and veterans’ families
- Better water drainage and long-term durability
- A cleaner, more polished appearance surrounding the tower
Concrete and sitework improvements also helped unify the appearance of the renovated memorial area while supporting long-term maintenance goals.
Coordinating Work in a Sensitive Environment
Projects within active cemeteries require careful scheduling, communication, and professionalism. NFC coordinated crews and construction activity to minimize disruption while maintaining a respectful work environment throughout the duration of the project.
From demolition and preparation to concrete placement and finishing work, every phase required attention to detail and careful execution. Maintaining clean work areas and protecting surrounding landscaping and memorial features remained a priority throughout the renovation.
Preserving Community Landmarks Through Quality Construction
Historic properties play an important role in preserving community history and honoring those who came before us. Restoration projects like the Evergreen Washelli Chimes Tower renovation help ensure these spaces remain safe, functional, and visually maintained for future generations.
National Facility Contractors is proud to support projects that combine craftsmanship, infrastructure improvement, and long-term preservation. Through detailed project management and coordinated execution, the completed renovation restored an important Seattle landmark while improving the overall visitor experience throughout the memorial site.
