Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects of Hopkinton recently completed a renovation of the historic building at One Ash Street, next to the Boston Marathon start line.

Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects of Hopkinton recently completed a renovation at One Ash Street, home to the Boston Athletic Association, which organizes the Boston Marathon. Built in 1900, this 9,000-square-foot historic building is located on Route 135 next to the famous Boston Marathon start line in Hopkinton.

Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects (GRLA) worked closely with the Boston Athletic Association (BAA) to design a new floor plan and layout for an expanded display area to house its collection of memorabilia and pay homage to the history of the Boston Marathon through a museum-like experience. The renovated space includes an open display room, an archive room and storage areas to support BAA. events as well as a new lounge, fitness room and collaboration and meeting spaces.

Accessibility was a central focal point for this renovation project, with the aim of ensuring inclusion for all. As a result, various exterior improvements were implemented, including the addition of designated accessible parking spaces, a gently sloped walkway to accommodate easier entry and automatic door openers for convenience. In addition, the interior upgrades consist of two new ADA-compliant restrooms, a lift installed for access to the second floor and the enlargement of all doors to provide universal access.

“We are grateful to Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects for their partnership with this renovation project at our One Ash Street office,” said Jack Fleming, president and CEO of the BAA. “When we took ownership of this historic building, we wanted to be intentional in how we cared for it as we respected its past while bringing it forward for our future use. A building with such history needed to be altered with care while ensuring that accessibility was front and center in all the planning. GRLA, the Hopkinton Historic District Commission, the construction team and the project managers shared the BAA’s vision, which led to the outcome we pursued. GRLA brought our vision to life, making it a reality.”

Construction was by Votze-Butler Associates.

Valis named to ambassador program

James Valis from Hopkinton-based Blackstone Valley Wealth Management was named by LPL Financial as a new member of the LPL Ambassador Council Program. Valis is one of 60 members selected from among approximately 29,000 LPL advisors and institution leaders nationwide for one of three councils designated by the members’ affiliation with LPL.

The Ambassador Council serves as a voice for LPL’s broad advisor base and helps deepen relationships with a cross section of highly dedicated financial professionals. These established and respected business leaders serve as valuable and well-informed extended community advocates for LPL. Ambassador Council members are important assets to LPL, closely connected to LPL’s strategic roadmap and key executives — sharing their industry experience, offering beneficial feedback and supporting peers of various affiliation types.

Council members serve a multiyear term and attend a series of in-person meetings during their tenure. They also contribute year-round through ad hoc participation supporting LPL communications, events and initiatives, and by connecting with LPL colleagues on an ongoing basis to ensure the perspectives of financial advisors and their clients are heard.