Peace Corps Volunteer in Nicaragua Helps Build Pedestrian Bridges
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![Peace Corps/Nicaragua volunteer Jamie Nations.](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20120915123405im_/http://files.peacecorps.gov/images/news/releases/pr_Nica%20Bridge%20Solo_th.jpg)
Construction began on the first bridge on April 11 and was completed on June 14. Nations worked with the community, volunteers from the University of Iowa, and another organization to construct the 37-meter (121.3-feet) bridge out of steel cable, concrete, wood, metal fencing, and rocks. Construction began on the second bridge on July 11 and was completed on September 14. Nations secured funding from the Peace Corps and U.S. Agency for International Development Small Project Assistance (SPA) program to construct the bridge using materials such as gabion, rocks, railroad tracks and wood.
![Magnifying glass icon](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20120915123405im_/http://files.peacecorps.gov/images/main/magnifying_glass.png)
![Community members and volunteers pose on the first completed bridge.](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20120915123405im_/http://files.peacecorps.gov/images/news/releases/pr_Nica%20Bridge%20Group_th.jpg)
The bridges are located approximately one kilometer (0.6 mile) apart and connect the community to the central highway.
About Peace Corps/Nicaragua: More than 2,020 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Nicaragua since the program was established in 1968. Volunteers in this Central American nation work in the areas of Small business development, community-based environmental education, sustainable food security, HIV/AIDS and maternal child health, and teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) education. Many volunteers work through the U.S. Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program to address HIV/AIDS issues. Currently, 218 volunteers are serving in Nicaragua. Volunteers are trained and work in Spanish.
About the Peace Corps: President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps on March 1, 1961, by executive order. Throughout 2011, Peace Corps is commemorating 50 years of promoting peace and friendship around the world. Historically, more than 200,000 Americans have served with the Peace Corps to promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of 139 host countries. Today, 8,655 volunteers are working with local communities in 76 host countries. Peace Corps volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment. Visit www.peacecorps.gov for more information.
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