Nantucket Cemetery Commission Clarifies Boston Stone Cost, Eyes Membership Vacancy

NANTUCKET -- April 8, 2026, Nantucket Cemetery Commission moves Boston Stone project forward at reduced cost and discusses membership vacancy. At its April 8 meeting, the commission clarified that a planned Boston Stone memorial will cost $4,800 plus $500 for installation using granite, down from an earlier estimate of $8,900 plus $500 for a marble-and-granite version, with fabricators described as ready to begin. Commissioners also confirmed that a perimeter plan for 46 Sparks Avenue, tied to Newtown Cemetery and addressed by Town Warrant Article 81, is moving forward through Blackwell Associates. One commissioner flagged concern about overcleaning of historic stones using D2 biocide at New North Cemetery, warning that repeated applications "could start to cause some sugaring" and speed deterioration of already fragile markers. The commission anticipates at least one vacancy, with outreach planned to the Nantucket Historical Association for a replacement who brings historic preservation expertise to the body.