West Point Foundry and Observation Tower

The West Point Foundry and Observation Tower, located in Cold Spring, New York, is a remarkable project completed in 2020.

Project Partners

Meyer Contracting Corporation

Meyer Contracting Corporation specializes in high-quality construction services across commercial, residential, and institutional projects. Known for craftsmanship and client satisfaction, they deliver with precision and efficiency.

Used in this project

Black Locust Decking

Black Locust Boardwalks

Project Details

• Project Name: West Point Foundry and Observation Tower
• Location: Cold Spring, New York, USA
• Year: 2020
• Landscape Architect: Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects
• Contractor: Meyer Contracting Corporation

Products Used: Decking and Boardwalk

Awards and Recognition

• Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES) Certified

Press and Additional Resources

• Sustainable Sites Initiative Overview
• Scenes from the Trail: West Point Foundry Preserve

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The West Point Foundry and Observation Tower, located in Cold Spring, New York, is an exemplary project that bridges the past and present through thoughtful design, sustainable materials, and a deep respect for history. Completed in 2020, the site’s transformation reflects the combined vision of Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects and Meyer Contracting Corporation, who worked together to create an immersive public space that is as educational as it is beautiful. At the heart of the project are the decking boards and boardwalk structures, carefully crafted from black locust decking. These elements do more than provide safe and durable walkways—they embody a commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The West Point Foundry was once one of the most important ironworks of the 19th century, playing a crucial role in America’s industrial history. Over time, the site transitioned from an active production hub into a cultural landmark, drawing visitors who seek to connect with its rich past. The challenge of revitalizing the site lay in balancing modern functionality with respect for its historical integrity. Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects embraced this challenge by designing a landscape that highlights both natural beauty and historic remnants, while Meyer Contracting Corporation brought this vision to life with precision and care. Black locust wood was central to the material palette, chosen for its proven durability, rot resistance, and low environmental impact. The decision to use black locust decking boards was not incidental—it was essential to the project’s sustainability goals. Black locust, a naturally rot-resistant hardwood, offers a superior alternative to chemically treated lumber or tropical hardwoods that are often sourced unsustainably. By selecting black locust decking as the primary decking material, the design team ensured the longevity of the new boardwalks and observation areas without compromising environmental ethics. This choice not only minimized the site’s ecological footprint but also highlighted the potential of locally sourced, renewable materials in modern construction. The decking boards, with their warm tones and natural texture, harmonize beautifully with the wooded surroundings, creating a seamless transition between built and natural environments. The observation tower stands as one of the most striking features of the project. Elevated above the landscape, it offers panoramic views of the West Point Foundry Preserve and the surrounding Hudson Valley. The approach to the tower is made possible by a series of boardwalks constructed from black locust decking. These pathways guide visitors through the site’s diverse terrain, from wooded areas to open clearings, while protecting delicate ecosystems underfoot. The use of decking boards ensures accessibility and comfort, allowing visitors of all ages to explore the preserve safely. The tower itself, anchored in the history of the site, becomes a literal and symbolic platform from which visitors can reflect on the relationship between industrial heritage and environmental renewal. Recognition for the project underscores its significance. The West Point Foundry and Observation Tower has earned certification from the Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES), an accolade that honors landscapes designed with sustainability at their core. This achievement reflects not only the architectural vision but also the material choices that shaped the project. Black locust decking played a vital role in achieving this recognition, serving as an eco-friendly decking material that meets the highest standards of performance and environmental responsibility. The project is also a celebration of collaboration. Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects provided the conceptual and technical expertise to design a site that both educates and inspires, while Meyer Contracting Corporation skillfully executed the construction, ensuring every decking board, walkway, and structural detail met the highest standards. The contribution of Black Locust Lumber as the supplier of premium decking materials added another layer of integrity to the project, reinforcing the commitment to sustainable design and long-term functionality. Beyond sustainability and history, the project is deeply human-centered. The decking material provides a tactile and visual warmth that invites people to linger, observe, and connect with the site. The boardwalks encourage slow exploration, while the observation tower elevates the experience to one of discovery and awe. Together, these elements transform the West Point Foundry Preserve into more than just a historic landmark—it becomes a living classroom, a place of reflection, and a model for future landscape projects. By integrating decking boards made from black locust wood, the West Point Foundry and Observation Tower demonstrates the potential of sustainable decking material in large-scale public works. It proves that durability, functionality, and aesthetics need not come at the expense of the environment. The project’s success lies in its ability to connect people to history and nature while showcasing how thoughtful design and material selection can create spaces that endure for generations. In every way, the revitalization of the West Point Foundry is a story of renewal. From its days as a bustling industrial site to its modern rebirth as a cultural and ecological treasure, the preserve now stands as an inspiring example of how history can inform the future. The use of black locust decking was instrumental in realizing this vision, providing the foundation—literally and symbolically—for a project that honors the past, embraces the present, and looks toward a sustainable future.