Facility Information

With the Fresh Pond Reservation as a dramatic backdrop, the Walter J. Sullivan water purification facility is located on the former site of the old water works buildings.  The consolidated facility footprint - the purification, maintenance and administrative operations are under one roof. Vegetation and plantings are primarily native species designed to create an "urban wild" appearance.

The building relates to the site's natural surroundings, using complementary exterior materials of granite, brick, slate and cast stone.  A two-story interior main lobby was designed with arched windows that allow natural light and unobstructed views of Fresh Pond.  The stone entrance and two stone medallions of the state and city seals were saved from the former water treatment plant to become part of the new lobby.  They form the background for the lobby's water fountain, designed in materials of granite, terrazzo and stainless steel.  Art within the building lobby, designed by a local artist, celebrates water by way of a unique terrazzo floor design and an 11-foot glass water column that is an interactive display for the public.  The column is connected to an exterior drinking fountain and comes to life with lights and bubbles when the drinking fountain is used.

Facility Tours:  For information on scheduling a tour of the facility, please click here for tour request form

Any questions? call Ralph Dunphy at 617 349-4777 or email him at rdunphy@cambridgema.gov