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Motts Run: Bridge Repair

By March 23, 2025April 29th, 2025General
The new bridge, shining in the afternoon sunlight.

“If you build it, they will come”

FTA built this bridge three years ago, but the winds were not in a favor as a massive oak tree crumpled the bridge earlier this winter.

The old bridge, smashed in half by a large oak tree.

With the help of some dedicated and experienced volunteers, we got this bridge built over the course of the weekend!

On Saturday, we moved material down to the worksite using our hands, shoulders, and a wonderful side-by-side from the Leonard’s. Additionally, volunteers got to get some energy out finishing the demo of the old bridge: tearing off decking and removing old joists. As extra credit, a few dedicated volunteers built the frame where we would be working the next day.

On Sunday, construction got into full gear: winching the heavy frame into place, securing posts and decking, and adding the railings. Dutiful and careful work was taken to ensure that this bridge remains sturdy for years to come.

Volunteers ready to work! Trail Boss Jimm with his dog Scout in the background.

Thank you to our wonderful volunteers who got their sweat in on this project. A major shout out goes to our Trail Boss Jimm Lafferty for transporting lumber and leading construction. Additionally, we want to express our thanks to Kirk Dishman at Lowe’s for their generous donation discount on the lumber and hardware required for this project.

Tired volunteers take a quick break.

We are looking forward to seeing some dirty boot prints and tire tracks on this bridge – it almost looks too clean! We are looking forward to seeing you out on the trail soon! The weather is looking great as our landscape starts to wake up from a cold winter!

The newly constructed bridge being tested by official trail pup Scout.

Do you want to help our trails? Consider donating to support our work! We are volunteer funded and your gift would make a direct impact on our local natural surface trails! Additionally, mark your calendar for our Spring Prune on May 24 & 25. For this Memorial Day workday, we will be clearing the the thorny vines and itchy grasses that stretch to crowd our trails.

Thank you trail friends! We will cya on the trail!

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