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SUNY ESF Construction Management Students Seek Bridge Project for Spring Semester
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Dec. 10, 2025 — Students in the construction management program at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) are seeking a client for a timber bridge project as part of their spring semester coursework.
As part of the class, students design, build, and load-test timber bridges on campus in Baker Laboratory. The bridge will be constructed for the cost of materials, paid by the client.
Project Specifications:
- Width: 4’ to 8’
- Length: 16’ to 24’
- Cost: $1,800–$2,600 (depending on size)
- Load test: ~4,000 lbs.
- Material: Pressure-treated wood (typically)
- Completion date: ~May 1, 2026
Transportation from Baker Lab to the final destination is the responsibility of the owner.
If you are interested in having a bridge built or would like more information, please contact Paul Crovella at [email protected].
“Construction Management students hone their skills for future success by designing and building bridges for community members,” said Paul Crovella, associate professor of construction management.
These projects expose students to all phases of project management, including client needs, site surveys, design, drafting, estimating, scheduling, construction, and testing.
“From pedestrian bridges for New York state forest trails to waterway crossings for anglers and vehicle access roads, these bridges reflect the pride and attention to detail students bring to meeting client expectations and supporting community needs,” Crovella added.
About SUNY ESF
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.