Project Lead the Way - Leaf River Bridge Trip
Why is it taking a long time to construct the bridge near Leaf River? On Sept 19, Forreston High School students in the Civil Engineering & Architecture class went with their teacher to the construction site to find out. Mr. Jonathan Stauffer and his students met with Shaun Gallagher. Mr. Gallagher is a school board member for the Forrestville Valley District and a professional civil engineer. He explained that it took about 3 years of planning among government officials, structural engineers and construction managers before building could begin. Students witnessed beams being placed by a large crane on the bridge from a safe viewing area to the south. Students could also see various stages of building from earthwork on the banks of the river to the exposed concrete piers in the middle. Mr. Gallagher explained that once beams are placed more roadwork is needed on either side of the bridge to match the raised platform. By attending this field trip, students left with a deeper appreciation of civil engineering and the work that goes into a public road project. The Civil Engineering & Architecture class is part of the Project Lead the Way engineering curriculum offered at Forreston High School.