Miller's Run Bridge I-Beam Construction

Details: Created on Tuesday, 25 March 2025 05:49; Written by Asher Ballantine

Construction of I-Beams to Protect Miller’s Run Bridge Concludes on March 21st For years, Miller’s Run Bridge in Lyndonville, Vermont, has been the site of numerous accidents, resulting in significant damage due to reckless driving. A project to install I-beams 20 yards out from the bridge’s structure was initiated to reduce yearly damages. The project reached its conclusion last Friday when the beams were put in place, and the Lyndon Institute welding class assembled sleek toppers for the I-beams, officially completing years of work. Justin Smith, the Municipal Administrator of Lyndonville, discussed the serious and costly damage the bridge had sustained over the years, which required the town to allocate substantial funds for repairs. The goal was to find a solution that would not compromise the bridge's aesthetic while effectively preventing large vehicles from damaging its structure. Justin Smith, Municipal Administrator: “The matte black finish obviously makes it look really nice, and when we get the faces on the bridge back up, we think that it’ll create a nice contrast with the white background.” Ryan Brill, the instructor of Lyndon Institute’s Welding 1 and Welding 2 classes, oversaw the students who contributed to welding the I-beam toppers. Brill had the honor of cutting the ribbon at the opening ceremony. He spoke about the importance of involving students in community projects and providing hands-on experience that would prepare them for future careers. Ryan Brill, Welding Instructor: “I think for the students to see that they’re doing work that benefits the community is invaluable. They’re engaging in real-world tasks and working on projects they would encounter in the industry. It’s preparing them for their future careers, and the biggest thing is that I try to run the classroom like a welding shop rather than just a traditional class.” The students themselves expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work on this project and emphasized the importance of contributing to community initiatives. A big congratulations to everyone involved in this project. Their dedication and hard work have brought the community together for this special moment, ensuring the preservation of Miller’s Run Bridge and its iconic status as a staple of Lyndonville.