After hearing Jim Wieler, Chair of the Medway Trail Taskforce speak at one of his scout meetings back in June of 2018, Alexander Green decided he was going to build a bridge!
During a scout meeting in June 2018, Mr. Wieler was a guest speaker. He spoke about the task force's vision for Hoag Trail which included a few "wish list" items. One of the items on the "wish list" was a new bridge which was needed at the swampy extension of the newly constructed bridge off of Adams Street. He mentioned that this new bridge would be a great idea for an eagle scout project. At the time of this meeting there was only a long plank used for foot travel to get across the swampy area. Often times during rain events, the plank would travel leaving it difficult to get across. So, Alexander Green decided building this bridge would be a great Eagle Scout project and an even better way to help the community!
Alex reached out to Lowe's with his idea and they worked closely with him, giving him a heavy discount towards boards and edges. Alex's friend, Justin Twamley who most recently became an Eagle Scout, had a family connection to a lumber yard in Framingham. Justin put Alex in touch with his connection and he was able to secure a discounted rate for the 20 ft. struts needed to build the bridge.
Next, the Lee family, who's property abuts the trail, allowed Alex access through their yard. With everything falling into place Alex used the Green family minivan to get all of his supplies to the trail. With the help of his family, fellow scouts and friends; Sam Fontecchio, Nick DerGarbain, Charlie Williams and Kevin Knowlton, the bridge was constructed on Saturday, December 15th. It took 4 1/2 hours to complete.
"It was great to have a lot of long time friends from school and scouts to help me", said Alex.
Alexander Green is currently a Senior at Medway High School.
Thank you Alex for your hard work and dedication to making Medway's open spaces functional and beautiful! All the best as you work towards becoming an Eagle Scout!