Tuesday, March 3, 2009

First Completed Bridge Project!

We've been doing the preliminary work on a number of bridge projects for, literally, several years . . . and now, finally, we have a completed bridge to show you!


No, no, no! That's the original bridge, the one which was replaced! I needed to show that one, so that you will have an appropriate appreciation of the new bridge. I know that a lot of you are going to feel that any swinging cable bridge is a scary item which should be avoided at all costs, and so you won't like the looks of the one we helped put up. But in this part of Honduras, with the steep terrain, seasonally flooded rivers, and the available resources, this type of bridge is quite practical and very much appreciated by those who use it - especially when the bridge isn't in disrepair.

Here's the new bridge:






This bridge was produced through a combined effort of several groups and organizations. Our part was procuring and donating the cable, as well as helping with some of the planning. You can see a listing of all the groups involved, painted four times on the bridge! And they spelled our last name wrong every time (there should be an "s" on the end of Sowers)! Oh well. We aren't really in this for the recognition anyway. But the sign is an important part of every community project in Honduras, so there's no avoiding it.

Bridge projects move so slowly for a variety of reasons, but we have several underway now, so hopefully we're going to see pictures of more completed bridges in the near future.

5 comments:

The Reader said...

the new bridge looks great!! Is it wooden planks running long-ways for the path? Very nicely done!

Live Simply Love Strongly said...

So much better!

Unknown said...

That is amazing. I respect your work greatly.

Beth said...

Nice bridge Sowers family! I know the people of the area are so blessed especially when the river is high! You are gifts to our family and the people of Western Honduras. Give everyone our love!

RoeH said...

What a cool bridge. Either way. But I'll definately cross it the 'newer' way. Found your blog through 'Farmer's Wife' and I love it. Can I keep you? :)

What wonderful things you are doing.