On Friday Mayor Marty Walsh announced that part of the Freedom Trail, the city’s emblematic link between some of it’s most celebrated historical attractions, is getting a cost-effective makeover. Two thousand feet, or just over a quarter of a mile, of the 2.5-mile trail from one terminus in Charlestown, through the North End and into Downtown Crossing are being replaced.

Rather than sink money into annual maintenance and repair costs, the Freedom Trail is being replaced with a thermoplastic treatment in which the new panels are applied with heat and subsequently preserved for up to eight years. The project, handled by the city’s Department of Public Works, is estimated to cost $50,000.

“The Freedom Trail is a Boston landmark and its visibility is important for visitors,” said Mayor Walsh. “As the City enters its peak tourism season, the newly laid pathway will guide our residents and tourists to popular destinations, and also save the City money in future costs associated with the annual painting of the path.”

The appropriately-colored red, white and blue strips are 10-inches wide and will not affect any of the traditional red brick parquet currently in sound condition. It’s expected completion date is at the end of June.

“Over 4 million people enjoy the Freedom Trail and our great city’s historic sites annually,” added Freedom Trail Foundation Executive Director Suzanne Taylor. “The Department of Public Works’ new brick-resembling treatment will stand the test of time and help residents and visitors navigate the Freedom Trail to experience each of the Trail’s 16 sites year-round.”

Image via Freedom Trail Foundation