Del Sol Lions contribute to Scout’s bridge repair project

The Del Sol Lions of Solana Beach provided a $300 check to Eric Francis, with Boy Scout Troop 713 (Del Mar) to assist with repairs to a 16-foot equestrian bridge in the San Dieguito River Park.

Eric took on the bridge repair project to satisfy a requirement to achieve his Eagle Scout rank. “The Del Sol Lions are happy to support this important community project,” said Del Sol Lions President David Cain. “We appreciate Eric’s contribution to improve one of our community’s most precious assets — the San Dieguito River Park.”

According to Eric, the original bridge wasn’t built to withstand all the foot and hoof traffic, so its planks were splintering. The River Park Conservancy could afford to make only patchwork repairs, and no long-term solution was identified before Eric’s rebuild project.

The previous deck pieces were 8 feet long, varied in width and 2 inches thick. The new deck pieces are weather-resistant redwood, are 12 inches wide and 4 inches thick, adding stability and durability to the heavily used bridge.

The overall cost to repair the equestrian bridge was more than $2,100. Eric, volunteers and Scouts from Troop 713 spent a total of 160 hours to complete the project over two weekends.

Eric said he fronted the cost of project materials and is still seeking donations from the community as reimbursement. If you’d like to contribute, visit bsatroop713.drupalgardens.com.

The Del Sol Lions meet from 5:30-7 p.m. every fourth Tuesday at the Fletcher Cove Community Center. Visitors and prospective members are always welcome. Visit DelSolLions.org.