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Commission approves two Eagle Scout projects to improve Five Mile Woods classroom and boardwalk
Summary
Lower Makefield Township Parks & Recreation commissioners approved two Eagle Scout projects to replace classroom timbers and resurface roughly 300 feet of boardwalk at Five Mile Woods Preserve; projects aim to improve safety and accessibility and will be coordinated with parks staff and Public Works.
Two Eagle Scout projects aimed at improving access and safety at Five Mile Woods Preserve won approval from the Lower Makefield Township Parks & Recreation Commission at its meeting.
John Hilfrey, the preserve’s naturalist, introduced Terrence “Taran” Smiley, 17, who proposed replacing decades-old, pressure-treated 2x4 timbers surrounding the preserve’s outdoor classroom with pressure-treated 6x6 posts set on rebar. Smiley said the work will be done by members of Troop 30, with 6–8 scouts expected to help; he estimated materials at roughly $700 and described fundraising plans including car washes, lawn mowing and vendor discounts. Parks staff told the commission that Public Works can accept and dispose of removed timbers and that the replacement 6x6 posts will better support crushed‑stone surfacing intended to improve wheelchair and walker access to the classroom area.
Commissioners asked about schedule and ADA implications. Smiley said he expects to complete work over one or two weekends, most likely in July or August, and that he will provide safety briefings and ensure adult supervision for work involving power tools.
The commission then heard from Brian Kugan, 19, who proposed resurfacing a contiguous boardwalk run of roughly 300 feet using donated Trex fascia boards to reduce slipperiness on wet boards. Kugan described an inspection-first approach: he will identify and replace rotten deck boards before installing the donated material, stage cutting and prep at a residence offsite, and supervise troop volunteers during work days. Parks staff and the naturalist supported the plan as a low-impact way to preserve the underlying structure while improving traction for hikers.
Both projects drew procedural motions to approve; commissioners voted to move forward and asked the scouts and parks staff to coordinate timing, safety supervision and to send photos on completion.
What happens next: the scouts will schedule work days with parks staff and Public Works for disposal and site access; the commission requested updates and photos after the projects are finished.
