BY MELISSA CIFELLI
Staff Writer
SOUTH BRUNSWICK — John Mandell is proving that today’s teens are anything but lazy.
John, just 15 and a freshman in high school, has obtained the rank of Eagle Scout in Troop 90.
To gain this prestigious rank, a Scout must advance through the ranks, obtain merit badges and complete a community service project.
John’s project was to build a 36-foot bridge in the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park in Kingston. The foot bridge, used by hikers, crosses over the Carter Brook in the Cook Preserve section of the park.
According to John, the bridge was in need of repair because it was unanchored and sagging, which made hikers avoid it.
With help from the Kingston Greenways Association, the Kingston Volunteer Fire Department, fellow Scouts and especially his father, John recovered and replaced the old bridge, giving hikers a more safe and secure structure.
Before John could begin, he had to first give a project review that required approval from by both his Scout troop and the Township Council.
Next came the fundraising phase, which John said went easier than he expected. According to John, various local companies and individuals donated money for his project, which totaled around $2,000.
Waiting for approval, however, took several months. It wasn’t until two years after the start of the project review that John said the bridge was finally complete.
“I was glad when it was over. It was a lot of hard work,” John said.
Though it was hard work, John, who has been involved with the Scouts since first grade, said he is proud of his accomplishments.
John’s father, Marty Mandell, said his son is a natural at building. As a toddler John would watch episodes of “This Old House” instead of cartoons, Mandell said.
According to Mandell, the bridge building project was a tremendous and positive growing experience that benefited his son’s self esteem.
Mandell said John managed the entire project more effectively than some supervisors he has worked with.
“He impressed me,” Mandell said.
The bridge will be dedicated in a ceremony on Sunday at 12:40 p.m. at the Canal Park at 218 Cleveland Lane.