Reviving the Saratoga Battlefield Tour Road; A Testament to the Success of the GAOA Legacy Restoration Fund

Saratoga NHP Tactile 3D bronze model of Neilson House

NPS

The completion of a $6 million project at Saratoga National Historical Park stands as an example of how the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) is making an impact. This ambitious initiative marks a milestone in preserving Americas historical landscapes and immersing visitors in our country's rich history.

One GAOA project within the park, at the Battlefield Tour Road, creates a better and more accessible experience with interpretive displays along the route. The park updated signs and upgraded parking areas, pathways and waysides at all ten tour stops along the Tour Road. Visitors of all abilities will be able to learn more and to better enjoy their trip to Saratoga.

Interpretive panel at Tour Stop 5/Wheatfield where the 2nd Battle of Saratoga started.  Incorporated bronze tactile features of a case shot canister and a cannon ball.

NPS

Prior to these enhancements, many of the Tour Road’s interpretive signs were well past their intended lifespan where exhibits were deteriorating or had to be removed for safety reasons. Outdated parking facilities and walkways posed safety hazards and failed to meet accessibility standards.

The park replaced interpretive signs with new displays that incorporate universal design principles. The recent displays, installed at well-placed sites, feature colors, fonts, tactile bronze relief maps, touchable replicas, audio descriptions, and braille language to make the exhibits more accessible and understandable for all visitors. Additionally, the project enhanced accessibility by designing all pathways to information points along the Tour Road to meet Architectural Barriers Act accessibility standards.

“As we approach the milestone of America's 250th anniversary, the completion of the Battlefield Tour Road Improvement Project represents a significant step forward in enhancing visitor experiences and ensuring accessibility for all. This project underscores our commitment to preserving our nation's history and providing educational opportunities that resonate with visitors from all walks of life,” said Superintendent Leslie Morlock.

Orientation panel for Tour Stop 2. The two bronze relief maps show where you are along the Tour Road and the layout of the tour stop.

NPS

With the approaching anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026 and commemorations for the Battles of Saratoga in 2027, these enhancements are not only timely but crucial. The revamped Tour Road experience ensures that all visitors can grasp an understanding of the battles’ importance in securing freedom and shaping historical narratives.

By improving park infrastructure, the National Park Service (NPS) stays true to its core mission of safeguarding sites and offering meaningful experiences for present and future generations. These endeavors align with programs like America 250, aiming to encourage conversations and strengthen connections through shared narratives and experiences.

Interpretive panels along a walkway Saratoga National Historical Park.

NPS