One goal of the research is to identify optimum design patterns from native materials that can be used for 3D-printed horizontal construction at remote sites.
Best known for his Statue of Liberty lighting for its 1980s restoration, the innovator personally contributed to more than 2,500 projects in 60 countries during his career.
A $250-million makeover of the landmark garden near Wilmington, Del., which will add a conservatory with geothermal and other sustainable systems, is the most ambitious development of a 40-year grand plan.
Maintenance and repair work is planned for two spans linked to mainland Massachusetts while designs for their estimated $4-billion replacements move forward.