Korey Barber Eagle Scout Project

Completed bridge, as seen from the Monroe side

Korey Barber's Eagle Scout project was the construction of a substantial bridge at the Shelton/Monroe border where the Paugussett Trail crosses Round Hill Brook before entering Webb Mountain. The existing crossing was deceptively difficult to use. Even when the water was low, it was easy to slip on the wet rock and fall.  When the water was high, the crossing was about impossible.  

Prepping the foundation

This project required an epic level of paperwork and reviews before construction could even begin. The bridge is located in two municipalities, each requiring reviews from multiple agencies such as Wetlands, Parks, Conservation, Trails, and Engineering. And because the Paugussett is managed by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA), they too reviewed the project. And this was all during the Covid pandemic, making each step potentially more difficult as offices shut down or restricted their hours. 

A full crew, all in face masks

To top it all off, Covid-related lumber shortages arose right about the time that construction was ready to begin. Shelves were bare at Home Depot and Lowes. Fortunately, Lowes management supported Korey's project and donated the materials he needed. 

View from the bridge

Round Hill Brook is a pretty little stream that falls rapidly through a notch down the embankment of the Housatonic River, creating a series of scenic little falls. Neighbors in the so-called Poet Section of the Shelton now have a convenient back door into Webb Mountain Park, and thru hikers have a much easier time getting across the brook (especially if they are backpacking into Webb Mountain, which has campsites). Nice job!