Lucas Morreale, a Scout from Titusville Troop 1776, completed his Eagle project at the Thompson Preserve in Hopewell Township, which is owned and maintained by Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space (FoHVOS). He planned and managed the construction of a 24-foot bridge over a tributary that feeds into the Stony Brook to replace the bridge washed away during Hurricane Irene in 2011.
In place of a bridge, a rope tied to a tree helped hikers traverse the steep, slippery ravine that flanks the tributary. Now hikers can enjoy a new footbridge that makes navigating the trail safer and easier.
Lucas accepted the project last November and started working on plans with his father, Glenn Morreale; project coach Vince Lauricella and FoHVOS representative Chris Berry. He and his project team were challenged to construct a 24-foot span bridge that would be eight feet longer than the original bridge. After many hours spent by Lucas and his project team planning the design of the bridge, he spent considerable time drawing up the materials list and organizing the three work sessions that it would take to complete construction.
Lumber and miscellaneous construction supplies, including six specially ordered beams that would support the span, were acquired through Heath Lumber in Ewing Township with the help of owner Gary Patricelli. Hardware was obtained through Onyx Fasteners of Ewing. Earth Anchors were installed at each corner of the bridge to prevent it from floating away. Randy Martin, owner of RM Tractors, donated his transportation services, which included a trailer long enough to haul the 24-foot beams. Sgt. Michael Cseremsak of the Hopewell Valley Police directed traffic during the unloading process, ensuring everyone’s safety.
Construction of the bridge was completed in June. Lucas Morreale extended his thanks to the Scouts, leaders and parents from Troop 1776, FoHVOS volunteers, local business partners, friends and family for supporting him in accomplishing his Eagle project.
Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space thanks Lucas for choosing construction of the sturdy bridge, a welcome feature on the Thompson Preserve trail.
