Aerial view of Sachem's Wood on Science Hill, Yale University, photo courtesy of Gilbane Building Company
Sachem's Wood on Science Hill, Yale University, photo by Rob DeSanto
Sachem's Wood on Science Hill, Yale University, photo by Rob DeSanto
Sachem's Wood on Science Hill, Yale University, photo by Rob DeSanto
Sachem's Wood on Science Hill, Yale University, photo by Rob DeSanto
Sachem's Wood on Science Hill, Yale University, photo by Rob DeSanto
Sachem's Wood on Science Hill, Yale University, photo by Rob DeSanto

At the terminus of Hillhouse Avenue, Sachem’s Wood is now a beautiful gateway into Science Hill from Yale’s central campus. The park’s makeover includes alluring landscaping, improved walking and bicycle paths, new stairs with grooved channels alongside each step for walking bicycles, new outdoor seating, and more lighting. Core to the redesign was creating a green space that connected Science Hill to the rest of central campus.

The materials used for the park’s walkways include bluestone and Bomanite, a decorative concrete with pebbles hand seeded onto its surface. Every walkway is bordered by a gray cobblestone runnel, designed for efficient water drainage. Benches are available for use throughout the park, ready to welcome anyone to sit and enjoy this improved green space.

Intent

Redesign of the main gateway to Science Hill on Yale’s campus to improve access to the area and visitors’ onsite experience.

Construction schedule

Completed January 2021

New amenities
  • Benches
  • Bicycle paths
  • Bicycle runnels at each set of stairs
  • Improved site lighting
Remaining impact

The northwest corner of Sachem’s Wood remains closed until the completion of the Kline Tower renovation.