TUSCULUM, Tenn. (WJHL) — Tusculum University has announced the completion of a new bridge to its Nature Trail, following damage to the previous bridge by Hurricane Helene.

A news release from Tusculum outlined that the university secured a state grant of approximately $30,000, which facilitated the replacement of the old bridge with a larger, more accessible one.

The funding, administered by the Tennessee State Museum, also enabled the removal of fallen trees in the trail area affected by Helene’s September 2024 destruction.

Per the release, Helene’s impact was severe when the original bridge near the Doak House Museum was struck by an oak tree, leading to a chain reaction where multiple trees fell onto the bridge. The bridge’s foundation reportedly “lifted around 12 inches and turned the structure at an angle,” leading to its closure.

Access to the trail was obstructed, requiring a closure of about three weeks as temporary infrastructure was installed by students and faculty. The state grant enabled the construction of a permanent bridge and the hiring of professional crews to clear residual fallen trees.

Dr. Peter Noll, professor of public history and museum studies, expressed gratitude, saying, “We’re thankful to the state for the grant, providing an optimal entry point near the Doak House with the new bridge and addressing fallen trees.” He added that the trail’s enhanced accessibility should increase usage.

“It will be extremely easy for people to walk or push a stroller over this bridge,” Dr. Noll said. “We are extraordinarily happy with the new bridge and know those who walk the trail will be pleased with it as well.”

Dr. Scott Hummel, Tusculum’s president, said in the release that the trail is a key amenity for the university and the broader community. A bonus of the newly-built bridge is that it’s larger and has no stairs to access it, making it more accessible for those with limited mobility.

“The trail is a wonderful place for our faculty, staff and students to enjoy some downtime,” he said. “We are also thrilled that many people in the community are using the trail, which gives them another opportunity to experience the beauty of our campus. The trail has been a great civic engagement initiative by our faculty, staff and students and increased visibility of our historic Doak House Museum.”

According to the university, the trail itself was first opened in 2021 after crews spent the year clearing paths. Since then, the trail’s upkeep has been a primary project for Tusculum students participating in the annual Nettie Fowler McCormick Service Day.

The Nature Trail begins at the Doak House Museum, 690 Erwin Hwy, and runs through a swath of woods that leads to the school’s Paul E. Hayden Educational Wetland. The trail features some forks in the path that lead visitors to other areas, like along College Creek. A full round-trip on the trail spans approximately one mile, the university said.

The trail is open during daylight hours every day of the year.

Those with questions about the trail or those interested in helping with trail maintenance can email Dr. Noll at pnoll@tusculum.edu.