Bostonians can get excited for summer celebrations at soon-to-be renovated Castle Island, Hatch Memorial Shell

Renovations are set to make Boston’s Castle Island and the Hatch Memorial Shell safer and more accessible ahead of major summer events, including the July 4 fireworks and the Tall Ships arrival. The Massachusetts state government said it has spent nearly $3.5 million on the projects, timed for the summer schedule that also marks the 250th anniversary of American independence. State officials cited expected crowds: about half a million for the Boston Pops Firework Spectacular and roughly 4 million projected along the waterfront in mid-July. The upgrades include $650,000 for the Castle Island Signal Corps Building, along with safety repairs to the Marine Park Bandstand ($910,000), work at the McDonough Sailing Center ($450,000), shoreline restoration ($350,000) and restoration of the Donald McKay monument ($230,000). Gov. Maura Healey said the investments will prepare iconic landmarks for residents and visitors and noted accessibility improvements supported by public comments from a student focused on disability access.