“I chose this project because I’ve always been interested in nature and wanted to do something to help the city,” Farr said.
Prior to Farr’s project, the trail was serviced only by a “shabby little bridge that was basically just boards laid across the muddy path,” Farr said.
For Farr’s project, he first put cement posts 3 1/2 feet feet into the ground. Then he constructed a 20-foot bridge, including stairs, that peaked over the muddy creek-bed that crossed the path.
Farr said he had 10 fellow scouts and friends assist him and it took approximately 150 man hours total to complete the bridge project.
“We built it over a four-day period in May,” Farr said.
Many of the materials, including the wood and concrete, were donated by Home Depot and Brandt’s Hardware stores in Lebanon.
The bridge is easily accessible on a short trail behind the La Luz apartment complex on Columbus Avenue.
Farr said earning an Eagle Scout badge was important to him because it was a sign of leadership and achievement.
“To become an Eagle Scout you have to prove you can be a leader in the community,” Farr said. “The Boy Scouts prepare you to become an adult and the Eagle Scout badge is the final, central piece to that.”
Farr said the outdoor adventures he went on with his troop are among his favorite memories of being a scout.
Farr had extra motivation to complete the project. His mother said Farr couldn’t date until the bridge project was completed.
“It definitely was a push to get moving on it,” Farr said with a laugh.
Farr is a member of Troop 498, which meets at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Middletown. Farr is planning on attending Brigham Young University in Utah this fall and hopes to become a doctor when he is finished.
About the Author