Boston Common
The Commons was a place that nearly everyone had heard of. Constantly filled with traders and travelers it had been some time since any of the raider bands had though to threaten the safety of the commons. Before the war a public park, and after it abandoned for a time, it was one of the safest locations for travelers to stop and rest. And one of the ones that asked the least questions of those allowed within it's walls.
Purpose / Function
Boston Common is one of the few places that has remained fairly untouched since the war. It has since then been walled up to insure that it can be used as a safe location. Commonly it is used as a trading post, travelers have been known to stop and remain there for a time if the road has grown dangerous.
Alterations
The wall that has been erected around it and a small barracks that houses the settlers who have taken up the task of defending the area. This is part of what allows it to be kept secure and those who defend it are generally sent supplies by the settlements around them. This is due to the mutual arrangement that it is a safe port for trade and travel. A gate and a series of turrets were added with the wall, though the gate has frequently undergone alterations both to strengthen it and ensure that it will remain in working condition should they ever face an attack.
Architecture
Concrete walls have been erected around the perimeter of the Commons. And 4 towers have been placed, each manned by 2 people at a time. The gate is made out of wood, strengthened by steel beams and then placed on a hydraulics system that took nearly a year to complete. This allows the gate to be opened and closed with just the press of a button, unlike the original gate which had to be manually opened and closed when anyone arrived.
Pretty cool, can you elaborate on what a trader visiting for the first time would see or do? is there food stalls / restaurants, any entertainers, or is it strictly business?