2025 Bridges to Prosperity

We're following your progress on this journey and are so very proud of what you're doing in Rwanda. Be safe, have fun and keep up the awesome work. Extra special shout out to my girl Rachel G!! I know you're crushing it and representing Florida phenomenally. Huge hugs to all!

Suspension Bridge Team - Very cool to see the process of building our 1st Suspension bridge as well as making samosa... My kids have decided that they will be our next kitchen experiment. Suspended Bridge Team - Setting sag, prefab, launching swings, and decking! Great progress! Arm and hand workout coming up wrapping rebar and stretching & tying fence. The kid and his custom handmade bike you shared will go down in legend! Savor every moment and keep taking and sharing your pics. Thanks for sharing the highlights and experiences and for all you are doing representing the best of us and helping out Rwanda!

Thank you for your amazing contribution to B2P. We are all watching and reading your daily updates. We hope you are enjoying every minute of this once in a lifetime experience.

Teams – The pictures of your work, and the progress to date, are incredible.Thanks to each of you for volunteering for this program, and for the sacrifices made, which required lengthy travel, and time away from family and friends.

Team – Love seeing the Instagram updates! Well done on getting the decking down and thank you to each of you for making such an impact! Very proud to be on your team! Shout out to my NW teammates :-)

Hi everyone - My name is Mark Prude, and I'm new in my role as HR Director for Civils. I wanted to say 'Thank You' to each of you, for sacrificing your time, to lend your talent, expertise, and love to the folks of Rwanda, in making a difference in their lives! Be Safe, and travel back home safely! What great role models you all are for the entire Balfour family!

All of you are AWESOME! Exactly a year ago my team and I were in Avispas, Bolivia building our bridge, as tough as it was at times, I have to say I miss it and I am a bit jealous of you all right now. I hope the travel to Rwanda was pleasant, I wish you all the best of luck and we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. I am exited check in on your progress each day.

Aaron Neeley

SEE OUR PREVIOUS BUILDS

2023 build

Mark Prude

Dan Peyovich

Ed Littleton

Scott Skidelsky

Tommy MacCabe

It was great today to get on the site and see the progress of both teams, the experiences you are having, and the individuals you are helping and working with! It's brought back great memories of Bolivia a year ago.

Mila Smith

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-1.986389°, 29.409167°

Kiruri Footbridge (Suspended Bridge Team)

Residents of communities to be served by the Kiruri Footbridge are mostly farming families who rely on consistent access to markets to sell crops and purchase basic necessities. The Kiruri River is dangerous to cross and can be impassable for weeks during the rainy season. This jeopardizes farmers reaching the markets, children attending school and families seeking medical care.

The Kiruri Footbridge will provide safe year-round passage over a river that has claimed 30 serious injuries in the last three years alone. The access will help save lives and empower over 3,000 members of surrounding communities.

Kirumbi Footbridge (Suspension Bridge Team)

-1.940958°, 29.514561°

The Satinsyi River has become synonymous with death and missed opportunity for the 3, 294 people who live nearby. The decision to stop crossing the river has saved lives but it has meant children no longer attend school and untreated illness has become a reality for many local residents.

The Kirumbi Suspension Bridge will provide safe, year-round access to life-changing resources that will significantly improve the health, education and quality of life of the local community.

An update on this year’s Bridges to Prosperity Trip

Due to the Marburg virus disease outbreak that occurred in Rwanda during October-December 2024, Balfour Beatty’s Bridges to Prosperity team did not travel to personally construct the Kiziba Trail bridge. While we were saddened by this development, our leadership chose to stay true to our Zero Harm values and prioritize our employees’ health and safety. Fortunately, the bridge was still built by the Bridges to Prosperity organization together with members of the local community. The 2024 team will instead travel in October 2025 to build the Rutenga Trail Bridge.

The Community

For the residents of the Rutenga, Bunyangezi, Mwendo, Nyarubuye and Mugunga communities in rural Rwanda, the Gaseka River is synonymous with missed opportunity. During the rainy season, the 3,313 residents living near the site of the future Rutenga Trail Bridge must make daily and incredibly difficult decisions. Cross the river, or allow your children to cross, and risk injury or death. Wait out the season and lose access to critical resources, lifesaving healthcare or these communities’ schools. Once complete, the Rutenga Suspended Bridge will provide safe, year-round access for the surrounding communities. Opportunity, health and prosperity can lie on the other side of the bridge, and by November 2025, these communities will no longer need to worry about risking their lives for them.

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Anthony Mathis

IT Support Manager

Generalist

14.5

years

(FL)

postcard if we dont get to it friday, its okay!

Anthony mathis

IT Support Manager

Ben pulley

ASsistant Vice President

evan Gustafson

Senior Superinterdent

Iris Boulware

Project Manager

paul Kelley

Project Executive

landon fisher

Communications Specialist

Mauro Rosales

Assistant Project Manager

Mohamed samoura

Senior Project Engineer

werner lange

Senior Safety, Health & Environmental Manager

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? This build and project are meaningful to me because of the long term immediate effect it will have on the local villagers. I truly believe the words of the writers for USA for Africa from the early 1980’s: We are the World…… ” We can't go on pretending day by day that someone, somehow will soon make a change we're all a part of God's great big family and the truth - you know love is all we need we are the world, we are the children we are the ones who make a brighter day so let's start giving there's a choice we're making we're saving our own lives it's true we'll make a better day just you and me”

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? My personal motivation and insights I seek are beyond the technical aspects of construction. I’m eager to understand how infrastructure can foster a community. I also want to hear the stories and perspectives of those who will benefit from this bridge.

#3: Who is your hero, and why? It's clear that my mother, Emma Jean McMillian, is not just a hero but a beacon of strength, love, and service in my life and her community. Her dedication to helping others through organizing drives, offering rides, and providing emotional support reflects a deep sense of purpose and compassion. It's touching to hear how my mother’s traits have influenced me and become ingrained in my identity. As her son, I carry forward her legacy of kindness and generosity, embodying the values she has instilled in me.

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Ben pulley

Assistant Vice President

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My hero is my grandfather because he wants the people around him to be the best they can be. He leads by example as a lifelong learner and enjoys sharing his experiences with family and others.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I am hoping to learn more about the Rwandan culture and community we will be working with. At the same time, I look forward to pushing myself outside of my comfort zone during the project developing new skills.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? This is important to me because as a member of Balfour Beatty Communities, we provide a place for our residents to call home where they can be close by to daily necessities. Our B2P team will connect a community to have easier access to work, medical, school, and other daily needs.

Fundraising

2.5

years

(GA)

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evan gustafson

Senior Superintendent

#3: Who is your hero and why? My wife is my hero. She inspires me daily to be the best person I can be.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I am hoping to gain a renewed life perspective from the Rwandan people and learn more about bridge building.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? I want to make a difference in the world and show my children that helping others is important.

Communications

years

(OR)

Donate to Carrie

IRIS BOULWARE

Project Manager

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? Giving to one’s children, spouse/partner, extended family, friends and work is in part out of commitment. I hope to learn what it feels like to give, not out of commitment, but purely out of desire to help others without any expectation.

#3: Who is your hero, and why? I actually have three heroes: my sister, my best friend from college and my best friend from my childhood. All stood with me in my wedding and all have passed away from cancer. They each displayed such courage and grace during their sicknesses and demonstrated to me true friendship while showing me what is important to focus on in life.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? I’ve been wanting to do B2P for years but the timing was never right due to other commitments, most importantly my kids. Becoming an empty nester this fall is finally going to allow me the opportunity to participate in doing something so incredibly significant for others; something I’ve wanted to do for years.

Logistics

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landon fisher

Communications Specialist

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I hope to learn more about the rich historical, cultural and physical landscapes of Rwanda. Travel and service also have a way of changing us, and I hope to further develop my understanding of my identity and my place in the world.

#3: Who is your hero, and why? Without a second thought – my dad. He has always strived to teach me the value of excellence in all things, but more importantly how to give freely of oneself – in time, service, resources and kindness.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? I’ve been privileged to travel far and wide in my life, and I’ve seen firsthand how vital basic infrastructure can be in the rural communities of South Africa, Zimbabwe and Tanzania. To take part in providing that - and as the team’s communications lead, capturing the stories of our team and the people we’re serving – is an honor.

Superintendent

9.5

years

(TX)

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mauro Rosales

Assistant Project Manager

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? From this experience, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of project management in a real-world setting, especially in a challenging environment. I want to learn how to effectively coordinate with a diverse team, manage resources efficiently, and adapt to unforeseen challenges. Additionally, I am eager to immerse myself in the local culture, learn from the community, and understand their unique needs and perspectives. I am also hoping to learn how to adapt to unknown environments. In this case, the entire team is coming from the United States to Rwanda, which has a completely different culture, conditions, and circumstances. Adapting to this unfamiliar environment as quickly as possible will be key to the completion and success of the project.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? This build is important to me because it aligns with my values of community service and sustainable development. Being born and raised in Venezuela, a developing country in South America, I have a personal connection and deep understanding of how transformative support can be for people with fewer resources. I have seen firsthand how lives can change when communities receive the help they need. This project is personal to me because it is a perfect example of how we can make a real difference. By building this bridge, we will connect people to essential resources like healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, potentially improving the lives of hundreds of people and setting them on a path to a better future.

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My hero is my father. He has been my guide and inspiration, always showing me the importance of never giving up on a better future. My father has taught me to grab every opportunity that comes my way and make the most out of it. His encouragement and wisdom have shaped how I approach life, pushing me to chase meaningful goals and make a positive impact. I am thankful for his constant support and the way he continues to inspire me in everything I do.

Generalist

Years

Donate to Mark

Mohamed Samoura

Senior Project Engineer

#3: Who is your hero, and why? I have many heroes in life. From friends and family to coworkers/teammates, and religious and historical figures, many of these individuals have had a tremendous impact on my growth and development throughout my life journey thus far. Each one of these individuals has played an instrumental role in shaping the man that I am today.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? From this experience, I hope to gain a sense of personal development/growth and learn to work efficiently with my team. Being of an African background, I hope to learn and experience how the Rwandese culture differs from my own (of Guinea-Conakry). Working in an environment so foreign to what I am used to in the U.S. will not only be a great learning opportunity but also an opportunity to challenge my critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? Helping others has always been important to me. As such, this project is of great importance to me because as a fellow African, I have always sought ways of giving back to my community and beyond, and this project not only serves as an opportunity to be able to do so, but also as a gateway to fostering new relationships with individuals of similar and different backgrounds as we all work towards a common goal.

Generalist/ Executive

years

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Paul kelley

Project Executive

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I am hoping to learn more about the traditions and cultures of the Rwandan people. I am also hoping to gain a new perspective and a renewed sense of appreciation for the access and availability of everyday resources that we take for granted.

#3: Who is your hero, and why? The dedication and sacrifices of the armed forces inspire me deeply. Their courage in the face of adversity and unwavering commitment to protecting our freedoms are incredibly admirable. Their selflessness and bravery serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and honor that define their service to our nation.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? This project is much more than a physical bridge connecting two pieces of land. The bridge will connect communities and resources. I am excited to be a part of this opportunity to provide such an invaluable piece of infrastructure to the people of Rwanda.

Alternate

years

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ryan reese

Vice President

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I hope to learn more about the beautiful and diverse county of Rwanda and the local people we have the opportunity to serve, and perhaps more about myself in the process.

#3: Who is your hero, and why? I don’t know that I have a single hero as they come in many forms, but I can say that I’m greatly inspired by both simple acts of kindness and the overall pursuit of excellence.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? It’s an amazing opportunity to be part of something both life changing and totally unique, while creating positive impacts and outcomes for a local community.

Generalist

years

(NC)

Week 1

Week 2

Oct 13 - Oct 24

The journey began with the team meeting up in New York City and boarding a flight from JFK Airport to Doha, Qatar. The first leg of their journey went off without a hitch, with no late flights and no missing bags, despite having around 2,000 pounds of checked luggage. The group breathed a sigh of relief having made it across the Atlantic with no issues.

On the second day of the build, the team fully hoisted and set tension in all six support cables, as well as got a head start on bending steel rebar into suspenders. These suspenders will ultimately be assembled into swings consisting of a platform-supporting slat and two suspenders, which will be launched onto the bridge cables.

During their first day of work, the group set the foundation for a successful bridge build by hauling 2,400 pounds of two-inch steel cable and cutting 240 two-meter pieces of steel rebar. After hauling the cables across the valley, the team anchored both ends, preparing the site for the next day’s work.

Beginning the Build

Our Bridges to Prosperity (B2P) team has kicked off construction on the Rutenga Trail Bridge! They began the day greeting 30 local Rwandan teammates who will building alongside them. The team conducted a safety session, ensuring everyone understood the vital importance of living out our Zero Harm mission, then it was time for the customary stretch and flex. Beyond the usual stretches, the team enjoyed some lively singing and dancing to get their bodies warmed up and ready for the day ahead.

UPDATE Two

Though the day was full of excitement for the team’s progress, it wasn’t without its challenges. The Busengo Valley was hotter and more humid than the group had experienced thus far, then transitioned into a torrential downpour, grounding the team’s efforts for nearly an hour.

The team’s fifth day of building was one of exciting progress as well as a few challenges. They were able to launch the rest of the 122 bridge swings as well as begin securing deck platforms. The team installed well over half of the 150 platforms throughout the day.

Update three

The team worked throughout the day to unroll and set all fencing into place, ready to be secured. They also paved one side of the abutment and began working on finishing touches like painting.

On the seventh day of the build, our Bridges to Prosperity team couldn’t help but think that the Rutenga Trail Bridge was looking nearly complete!

UPDATE Five

Meanwhile, other teammates set the sag on all six bridge cables, a painstaking process of back-and-forth clamping, careful surveying work and pulling the 1,500-pound cables into place. Not satisfied to leave anything undone, the 50-person build team even stayed late to finish uncoiling and hoisting a temporary safety cable across the span. This extra work set the next day up for success.

The Bridges to Prosperity (B2P) team hit the ground running on their third day of construction. Having completed 30 swing platforms the day before, the group completed the other 92 in a matter of hours, including transporting half of them across the 400-foot span to stage them for placement on the bridge cables.

UPDATE Four

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Day Seven

This trip was nearly two years in the making, as the group’s original build plans were thwarted in 2024 when the outbreak of the Marburg virus made it unsafe for the team to travel to Rwanda. The delay only made finishing this bridge sweeter, as the team finally got to see their plans realized.

Completing the Project of a Lifetime

Over the last couple weeks, our Bridges to Prosperity (B2P) team has worked tirelessly to deliver the Rutenga Trail Bridge, serving communities along the Gaseka River in Rwanda. This new pedestrian passage provides more than 3,000 people safe access to healthcare, education and other vital resources that have historically been cut off when the river floods in rainy season.

UPDATE Six

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Mila Smith

Tommy MacCabe

Thank you for your amazing contribution to B2P. We are all watching and reading your daily updates. We hope you are enjoying every minute of this once in a lifetime experience.

Scott Skidelsky

Ed Littleton

Dan Peyovich

Mark Prude

Aaron Neeley

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the build: day-by-day

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Resni Cruz

Project Generalist

Jeff Tate

Logistics Lead

Chris Grahmann

Project Generalist

Daryl Woody

Project Generalist

Drew Rosenfelt

Safety Lead

Robert Gresl

Construction Manager

Amanda Patton

Communications Lead

Jessica Johnston

Project Manager

Sam Brown

Fundraising Lead

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Resni Cruz

Project Generalist

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My father is my number one hero, the principles and moral values he has instilled in me since I was a kid make me the person I am today. He has worked extremely hard to make me and my family happy.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I hope to bring an open mind and collaborate with my team to further develop my critical thinking skills and achieve our goal. Providing a space for the team to bring their best ideas forward will allow us to utilize the best approaches throughout.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? Giving back and volunteering are significant to my personal values. My desire to make a positive impact in the world we live in was, without a doubt, the primary reason why this project is important to me.

Senior Project Engineer

3.5

years

Donate to JEFF

Jeff Tate

Logistics Lead

#3: Who is your hero, and why? There are several people in my life that I would consider my heroes. Specifically, I would consider my late grandmother one of the more significant heroes I’ve had. She was one of the strongest women I have ever met and even in her absence, I still look to her for guidance.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I am excited to listen and learn from the people of Rwanda that we will be working alongside for this build. I hope to learn more about their culture and history, and I am excited to help give back to the community.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? Giving back and volunteering is a significant part of my personal values. My burning desire to positively make an impact in the world we live in was without a doubt the primary reason why this project is important for me.

Director of Project Integration

years

(GA)

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Chris Grahmann

Project Generalist

#3: Who is your hero, and why? It’s impossible to pick just one of these two people, so my heroes are my parents. They have taught me the importance of hard work, faith and service to others by example.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I want to play a part in helping to improve the lives of others. Helping to build a footbridge that will continue to help others for many years to come will, no doubt, lead to a sense of accomplishment and joy.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? I have consistently challenged myself throughout my life, but this experience will elevate that by placing me outside my comfort zone. It will also allow me to see places I never imagined visiting.

Senior Estimator

years

(TX)

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Daryl Woody

Project Generalist

#3: Who is your hero and why? My hero is my grandmother. She raised both me and my siblings from a very young age. She taught me how to cook, clean and overall, taught me to be independent and responsible for myself. Without her, I wouldn't have achieved what I have or be who I am today.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? By helping to establish a safe and reliable means of travel for such a large community, I hope to gain the understanding of what it means for them and know the impact it will have on their daily lives.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? This build highlights the importance and continuous need for service by others. This project will allow me to help provide aid and sustainability for a community in need.

Maintenance Technician

years

(WY)

Donate to Drew

Drew Rosenfelt

Safety Lead

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My hero is Captain Kirk. He always explored new places, solved different problems and had exciting adventures. He always fascinated me when I was a kid.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I’m intrigued to meet new people and learn new customs in an area of the world that I am unfamiliar with. I believe learning how to build a bridge in a remote setting will be a new and exciting challenge for myself and the team.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? I have always enjoyed being a part of something bigger. This bridge is very important to the local community in ways that we usually take for granted. When working in construction you always leave a part of yourself behind and that is fantastic when you can say "I was a part of that".

Senior Safety Manager

2.5

years

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Kate Humphries

Project Generalist

#3: Who is your hero, and why? I have had many heroes and people who have influenced my life and wouldn’t want to limit it to one. Most importantly, my parents have solidified my values and work ethic, as well as life passions and commitments.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I hope to transfer my teamwork skills and work collaboratively with my team in a new situation and place. I’m excited to learn more about the community and the attributes of the people in Rwanda.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? The build and project are significant due to the unique opportunity to give back to a community that I otherwise might not be aware of. It will bring a global awareness to myself (and my family) that we can look back on and can carry forward.

Sr. Project Manager

years

(TX)

Donate to Robert

Robert Gresl

Construction Manager

#3: Who is your hero, and why? Our Armed Forces are my heroes because they defend our freedoms every day.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I'm excited to learn about the Rwandan culture and experience the camaraderie of working with a diverse team on a worthwhile goal.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? I see this as a once in a lifetime experience to help a needy community and really make an impact to improve the quality of life for them. This program has had my attention for years, and I feel so fortunate to be a part of this 2022 B2P Build team!

Preconstruction Manager

years

(CA)

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Amanda Patton

Communications Lead

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My heroes are my daughter, one who is always quick to care for others in need and my son, who is determined to share his laughter and bring a smile to anyone’s face. These two and countless others inspire me to be a better person every day.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I hope to better understand the experiences of others across the world and hopefully go forward with more gratitude, humility and grace.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? It's important the members of this community have safe and easy access to resources we take for granted every day. This build will provide them with the opportunities to enhance their quality of life and connect with others.

Integrated Projects Manager

years

(VA)

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Jessica Johnston

Project Manager

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My parents are my heroes. They fled from El Salvador during the Salvadorian Civil War with the hopes of finding aid and new opportunities in a country unknown. As first-generation immigrants, trying to establish stability in our lives was not easy. However, they always managed to keep a smile on their faces.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I'm excited to live life alongside the members of the community and learn more about who they are and what they care about. Building a bridge will be great, but I'm really excited to meet the people who will be using it.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? I am considering doing something like this for the rest of my life! I chose civil engineering and construction as a career path to work as an engineer in developing countries, so I'm looking forward to working and learning first-hand.

Construction Engineer

2.5

years

(TX)

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Sam Brown

Fundraising Lead

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My hero has always been my grandmom. She might have not had as much as others, but she sacrificed for her whole family and made sure her younger siblings received what she couldn't.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I hope to learn more about the community we are helping and see first-hand how this bridge will impact the community. I hope that at the end of this build, we will learn something more valuable from this community than what we are providing them with.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? I believe it is essential to help as others did for me. I was fortunate to have people that helped me change my life for the better and help me get to where I am now. Volunteering my services and helping to improve someone’s quality of life brings me the ultimate gratitude.

Division Controller

4.5

years

(PA)

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COMBINED LENGTH OF ALL BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS

COMBINED NUMBER OF MILES TRAVELLED BY ALL TIMES

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793

TOTAL NUMBER AFFECTED THROUGHOUT ALL 5 COMMUNITIES

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE

COMBINED LENGTH OF ALL BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS

COMBINED NUMBER OF MILES TRAVELLED BY ALL TIMES

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793

TOTAL NUMBER AFFECTED THROUGHOUT ALL 5 COMMUNITIES

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE

COMBINED LENGTH OF ALL BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS

COMBINED NUMBER OF MILES TRAVELLED BY ALL TIMES

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793

TOTAL NUMBER AFFECTED THROUGHOUT ALL 5 COMMUNITIES

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE

LENGTH OF BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS

number of miles traveled by previous teams

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793 MILES

number of people affected by year

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE

The Community

For the residents of the Kagarama, Matyazo, Twimbogo, Majuri and Ruyenzi communities, there is no dry season. The residents living near the trail bridge must make the difficult decision daily whether they should attempt to cross, or let their children attempt to cross, to reach critical resources. While the Musogoro River is always flowing, it typically becomes even more dangerous to cross while it's flooded, and the current crossing point is submerged under water. During this time, children effectively become cut off from school, and other services the communities are unable to reach during these times include markets and the hospital. The Matyaco Suspended Bridge will provide safe, year-round access to its 3,800+ residents and greater opportunities for trade and welfare which empowers the communities to grow and thrive.

General

The Team

Day-by-Day

Sponsors

Postcard

LENGTH OF BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS 2019: 50 & 56 METERS* 2022: 90 METERS

number of miles traveled by previous teams

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793 MILES 2019: 7,230 MILES 2022: 7,228 MILES 2023: 7,898 MILES 2024: 0 MILES**

number of people affected by year

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE 2019: 6,584 PEOPLE* 2022: 3,816 PEOPLE 2023: 4,230 PEOPLE 2024: 2,800 PEOPLE

LENGTH OF BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS

number of miles traveled by previous teams

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793 MILES

number of people affected by year

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE

LENGTH OF BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS

number of miles traveled by previous teams

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793 MILES

number of people affected by year

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE

LENGTH OF BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS

number of miles traveled by previous teams

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793 MILES

number of people affected by year

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE

length of bridges built

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS

number of miles traveled by previous teams

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793 MILES

number of people affected by year

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE

NEXT DAY

On Sunday, the team left the capital city and headed west to their home for the next two weeks in the town of Musanze. After dropping off their luggage at their accommodations, they journeyed to the build site near Rutenga, where they met the Bridges to Prosperity staff. The team experienced what will become their daily journey throughout the build: over an hour-long car ride followed by a 25-minute hike to reach the site. Together with the B2P team, they got the lay of the land and planned for their first official build day on Monday.

Previous Day

After more than 48 hours of travel, our team arrived safely in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. The group checked into their hotel and made friends with their hotel concierge, Fidel, who accompanied them to the Rwanda vs. Benin World Cup qualifying soccer match at Stade Amahoro. The next morning, the team traveled to Akagera National Park for a safari, enjoying a relaxing day of fellowship and team building before setting off for the build site the next day.

The team has also been earning the support of the local village, with the children singing them a Rwandan anthem to end their day: “Tuzarwubaka! (We will build it!) Tuzarwubaka, abana b’abanyarwanda (We will build it, the children of Rwanda) Turugire nka paradizo (We will make it like paradise) Ku isi yose we tuzarwubaka! (In the whole world, we will build it!)”

NEXT DAY

The team began by checking all necessary dimensions and calculating the sag. In an all-hands-on-deck task, the team started to set the cables in place on the high side of the river with temporary clamps. After completing the strenuous task and taking time for a quick re-fuel, the team turned and set the cables on the low side of the river. This process included removing the cables from the temporary bridge where they had been staged and then placing the center portion in the river for alignment.

Despite the setback, their progress couldn’t be ignored, with the group taking their first steps across sections of the bridge for the first time.

After a whirlwind week of hard work, the team took a well-deserved break over the weekend, travelling to the Virunga Conservation area to Volcanoes National Park.

Throughout their hike, the group got to see dozens of endangered mountain gorillas and experience more of the natural beauty of Rwanda.

After reaching their destination, the team enjoyed a buffet-style dinner that featured various local and international foods. The team enjoyed a good night's sleep in a nice hotel and the Wi-Fi connection and hot showers that came along with it.

After everyone rose early for a full breakfast, the team began their morning start to a safari tour. Throughout the day, the team enjoyed the sights of many animals, a packed lunch on the road and learned just how fine the red dust coming from the road could be. Although the dust covered everyone, the experience was truly once in a lifetime that every member of the team will cherish long after the mission.

The following day much of the team enjoyed a boat ride around Lake Ihema. There they saw families of hippos, an island full of diverse species of birds, several crocodiles and water buffalos.

The bridge truly began taking shape on build day four. The group took a moment to hold a topping-out ceremony, having every member of the build team sign one of the center bridge swings, leaving their mark on this life-changing project.

Together, the group launched over half of the 122 bridge swings onto the cables. What that morning simply looked like cables stretching across a valley now looks like a real bridge.

The team’s accomplishments thus far wouldn’t have been possible without the connections they’ve made with their Rwandan partners. Our Balfour Beatty team has been inspired by teammates like Emmanur, for whom this is his eighth B2P bridge build, Chantal, their passionate tool shed keeper, and Reverion, who is enthusiastically learning English and frequently relocates to the capital in search of work.

The team credits their Rwandan partners with showing them the importance of this project and what it means to the surrounding community.

As the teams continued laying the decking in earnest, they transported many pieces of heavy decking across the river and up the steep hill toward the high side of the river's abutment. After a short break, the team quickly returned to the labor-intensive activities. During this time, the masons also arrived to lay the walls on the low abutment left out for access. By the local workers mixing the grout on-site, the team could continue backfilling and prepping the work necessary for the concrete that has yet to be poured.

Throughout the day, the team experienced several challenges such as lifting the heavy decking planks onto the bridge, pushing out large numbers of swings that were spaced too closely and pulling back swings that were spaced too far apart to reach with any standard tools.

The following day, the team focused on one central goal –training two of the local community members to place and secure the decking to continue maintenance of the bridge after the first year. After their morning huddle and stretch and flex, the team split up to their respective sides of the river and continued placing the decking. Members of the local community also contributed to this important task. Displaying even more ingenuity, the team utilized ropes to space some of the swings further apart, creating a more efficient workflow.

The unpredictable Rwandan weather struck again on day eight, interrupting three hours of scheduled work. Despite this setback, the team was in good spirits and confident that they would meet their deadline.

Once the rain had passed, the team set to work forming the concrete ramp and platform on the far side of the bridge.

They also nearly finished the painstaking process of hand-twisting over 3,000 pieces of three-inch wire to secure the side fencing. With aching hands, they finished the day satisfied that 95% of the bridge was complete.

The ninth build day brought celebrations and finishing touches! The team began the day visiting a primary school near the jobsite. Many of the school’s 900 students will utilize the finished bridge, protecting their access to education through inclement weather and reducing their journey to school even in the best conditions. In addition to seeing the smiling faces of the students, the team donated much-needed school supplies and soccer balls to the school.

One theme has rung true throughout the build: the power of teaching. Whether it has been teammates mentoring each other or community members, Bridges to Prosperity engineers sharing their processes or community members teaching the local language, Kinyarwanda, the entire team has utilized the bridge build to help others expand their skills as well as their own.

Since the last update, substantial progress towards bridge completion has been made. The team picked right back up on the bridge build after their safari outing. They began the day with teammates painting stanchions, placing decking and bending the final pieces of rebar around the handrail.

Once the decking reached the point in the center of the bridge, the team took the measurements for the final infill pieces, and pieces were cut to the needed length using grinders. While several team members prepped the decking panels, others positioned bundles of smaller cables to be fed through the swings and become the fixation cable where the bottom of the chain-link sides will terminate.

After the team adjusted the sag, they worked to torque down all of the clamps on all four cables. They also heated the tar to prepare for application to all cables and clamps that hang beneath the backfill and concrete. Once these tasks were completed at a distance far enough from the low abutment, the first pieces of the chain-link fencing were ready to be set into place, pulled tight and tied into place with wire.

Work also continued at the high abutment, including painting the stanchions, creating formwork and placing hand-mixed concrete from the bridge edge to the already poured concrete platform. However, once the team heard thunder in the distance, they quickly began implementing their best practice protocols for storm preparedness by securing all materials, storing all tools and personal protective equipment and moving to a safe shelter.

After putting the finishing touches on the bridge and completing the final inspection, the team gathered with their Rwandan teammates and members of the community to celebrate delivering this life-changing resource with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

After cutting the ribbon, the group made their way across the bridge, celebrating the result of hard work and the many lives that will be changed by this safe passageway.

Over 15 days, our Bridges to Prosperity (B2P) team has worked diligently to deliver a critical footbridge for the communities of Kagarama, Matyazo, Twimbogo, Majuro and Ruyenzi in Rwanda. This new pedestrian passage provides approximately 3,800 people safe access to lifechanging healthcare, education and other vital resources over once impassable rivers.

After putting the finishing touches on the 90-meter bridge, the team proudly announced its completion and approval from the local inspectors. The following day, the team packed their bags and loaded up their trusted vehicles, affectionately nicknamed Herbie and McQueen, for their final drive to the jobsite and the inauguration of the bridge. The team waved bittersweet goodbyes to the many people they saw daily on their route to the bridge.

BACK TO BBUS.com

Postcard

Jesse schmitt

Senior Preconstruction Manager

Ryan Reese

Vice President

years

Donate to Anvesh

Jesse schmitt

Senior Preconstruction Manager

#3: Who is your hero, and why? I can’t say that I have a hero. However, I am often inspired by acts of bravery or goodness that I witness and read about daily. These acts restore my faith in humanity as I truly believe there are heroes in all people.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? Even though we will only be in Rwanda for a couple of weeks, I hope to learn as much as possible about the Rwandan people and culture. Learning to build a suspension bridge while getting to know my teammates is just icing on the cake!

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? The fact that people need to cross a dangerous raging river for basic necessities or schooling is unthinkable. Building this bridge will make a difference in the lives of so many people and will have an everlasting impact on the communities it serves. Being able to be a part of this type of transformation will be one of the most rewarding accomplishments of my life!

Project Manager

6.5

years

(WA)

Donate to Chris

Werner lange

Senior SAfety, Health & Environmental Manager

#3: Who is your hero, and why? WOW! My Family is what drives me every day.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? To appreciate what we have in our homeland, which we overlook without any appreciation, and learn how to do better for someone without thinking about what, who, or what part of the world we are in at the end of the day. See the satisfaction with a big smile.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? It is inspiring to think we will build something significantly impacting a community’s life. It is crucial to convey to the community that they are not alone, and Balfour Beatty is here to make a life-changing difference.

Generalist

6.5

years

2024 build

(PA)

(CA)

(CT)

(CA)

(TX)

2.5

(PA)

(VA)

Amanda Patton

Communications Lead

Jessica Johnston

Project Manager

(PA)

(CA)

(FL)

(CA)

(TX)

(PA)

Donate to Mark

Mark Jennings

EVP, Finance

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My wife is my hero. Aside from being the love of my life, she is the kindest person I have ever met and is always thinking about others. She sets an example that makes me a better person.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I am always keen to learn from my colleagues about what goes into various construction projects – this will just be a little more practical. However what I am really looking forward to learning about is the culture of Rwanda, a Country I have never travelled to. I am very keen to experience the cuisine of Rwanda (hoping I can try Isombe).

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? My career has always been about providing projects that enhance social welfare (schools, hospitals etc). I cannot think of a project that enhances social welfare more than the construction of a bridge that facilitates safe connectivity for communities, whether it is children going to school, patients going to healthcare or people going to the shops.

Generalist/ Executive

years

(PA)

Donate to Doug

Doug Baker

Project Manager

#3: Who is your hero, and why? My dad, also Doug Baker, is my hero. Beyond being a great person, father and husband, he has put my sister and I through college, as well as helping many of our cousins and friends’ kids who might not have had the opportunity. He will always lend a helping hand and sees the good that can come just from being there for someone.

#2: What are you hoping to learn from this experience? I’m hoping to learn more about myself and how I can impact communities on a global scale. I have many opportunities here locally, but the chance to impact a community that I wouldn’t otherwise know about without B2P is exciting! This experience will give me a different view of how an organization can go beyond our immediate cities and communities.

#1: Why is this build and project important to you? This project is important to me because my greatest satisfaction with my job/projects is gained by giving back to the communities that we live and work in, beyond just the shiny new spaces and buildings. This project gives me the opportunity to impact a large community on the other side of the world and allows me to show my daughters positive ways to impact our global community.

Alternate

2.5

years

(WA)

* two bridges built in 2019 **due to Marburg virus outbreak

LENGTH OF BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS 2019: 50 & 56 METERS* 2022: 90 METERS 2023:110 METERS 2024: 110 METERS

number of miles traveled by previous teams

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793 MILES 2019: 7,230 MILES 2022: 7,228 MILES 2023: 7,898 MILES 2024: 0 MILES**

number of people affected by year

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE 2019: 6,584 PEOPLE* 2022: 3,816 PEOPLE

LENGTH OF BRIDGES BUILT

2017: 101 METERS 2018: 130 METERS 2019: 50 & 56 METERS* 2022: 90 METERS 2023: 110 METERS 2024: 110 METERS

number of miles traveled by previous teams

2017: 3,793 MILES 2018: 3,793 MILES 2019: 3,793 MILES 2020: 3,793 MILES

number of people affected by year

2017: 875 PEOPLE 2018: 1,400 PEOPLE 2019: 6,584 PEOPLE* 2022: 3,816 PEOPLE 2023: 4,230 PEOPLE 2024: 2,800 PEOPLE

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BUILD JOURNAL

Beginning the Journey

KICK OFF OF THE GIHINGA TRAILBRIDGE BUILD

Our teammates were honored to contribute to this mission and will carry the memories and relationships formed throughout their lives. Their strength, passion and determination inspired their Balfour Beatty teammates in the States and beyond. They truly lived out the theme of this build: “Joy in the process, strength in the team!”

After their school visit, the team returned to the bridge to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony along. Community leaders, the local B2P team and our Balfour Beatty teammates shared how much the project has meant to them and thanked everyone who played a role in delivering the vital Gihinga trail bridge.

Fundraising Contributor

Arriving in Rwanda

Getting the Lay of the Land

Beginning the Journey

Arriving in Rwanda

Mass Production and Major Milestones

Beginning the Build

The team spent the rest of the day learning about the local culture from the community, who welcomed them with open arms. From traditional garb to music and dances, the group enjoyed the opportunity to experience Rwanda.

On Monday, it was back to work for day 6 of the bridge build! The team secured the final deck platforms, allowing them to walk the full length of the bridge for the first time.

With the decking complete, the team begins adding the fencing, which will ensure fall protection for pedestrians. The end is in sight for this build and our team couldn’t be more excited to deliver this bridge to the community!

Though the day was physically exhausting, the team pushed through to complete a significant amount of work. Prior to installation, the entire team signed the final piece of bridge decking to commemorate their progress and leave a lasting moniker of their personal contributions to this lifechanging mission. The team also continued torquing the cross beams, bending suspenders and installing fencing. In these final days of construction, the group is maintaining momentum by relying on one another and remembering their inspirational motto – “One team, one goal.”

Completion is in sight!

Returning to the jobsite, the team joined their local teammates for a barbecue celebrating their build coming to an end. The group enjoyed a feast and appreciated the opportunity to relax with their new friends.

With only a few small tasks left to complete, the team is excited to deliver the Rutenga Trail Bridge and close out this incredible experience.

Beginning the Build

As they have done following the achievement of milestones throughout the build, our B2P team and the local team danced together to celebrate their job well done. While ecstatic that the project is near complete, the ending of the build is bittersweet as the team says goodbye to the friends they’ve made in the community.