Bridge Celebration Connects Two States and a Proud History

By Melissa Brown

photo provided The new Champlain Bridge, opened late 2011.

photo provided The old 1929 bridge, demolished in 2010.

    Under the bright morning sun on May 19, vendors began preparing for the celebration of the New Lake Champlain Bridge. White tents dotted the landscape around the massive structure, and people attending the event began pouring in well before 9am. All of the vendors and food tents were local, and there were events that appealed to people of all ages. There were was a petting zoo set up by the Independence Farm from Orwell, an FFA-4H Exhibit with farm animals, a Living History Encampment, an Antique Tractor Display, and much more. During the celebration, which spanned two days, events like a Vintage Car Show, a Street Dance and Concert, a 5k run, and a Lights on the Lake Fireworks Spectacular were scheduled to take place. This was truly a grassroots celebration and commemoration. It was a time to honor the Old Bridge and welcome the New Bridge, and to thank the people for their patience during the 2 years that the bridge was out of commission.