Life scout James Riley’s Eagle project approved to rebuild Blodgett Hill trail bridge

The Merrimack Town Council on Feb. 26 approved an Eagle Scout project proposed by life scout James Riley to rebuild the bridge on the Blodgett Hill Trail at Horse Hill Nature Preserve.

Riley told the council the existing bridge is "in very poor condition and poses a safety hazard to the community," and outlined a plan to raise about $1,180 through car washes and group bike rides, widen a fire-access road to allow trucks to reach the site, build a temporary bypass bridge during construction, remove the old decking and flashing, and haul debris to the Merrimack Transfer Station for disposal. He said the work is planned for early summer with two weekends for demolition and two weekends for rebuilding.

Conservation Commissioner Ellen Cove, who said the Horse Hill subcommittee has long known the bridge needed repair, praised Riley’s proposal as "something that's gonna benefit many, many users in Horse Hills." Councilors asked technical questions about materials: Riley explained he will use ice-and-water shield beneath aluminum flashing so screw penetrations will self-seal.

Councilor Tom moved to approve Riley’s Eagle Scout project and authorize the town manager to execute any related documents; the motion was seconded by Nancy Murphy and passed by voice vote (6–0–0). After the vote the council encouraged Riley to coordinate fundraising dates with town staff.

The council’s vote authorizes the work but does not itself authorize off-site expenditures beyond permitting and routine transfer-station disposal; Riley said he has contacted the transfer station to arrange disposal of demolition material.