Update on Bridge Collapse & Next Steps
Dear ECS Families,
We were saddened to learn that the Fern Hollow Bridge collapsed this morning over Frick Park. Our thoughts are with the individuals who have sustained injuries in this tragedy, and we are grateful that there are no life-threatening casualties and for the first responders who arrived at the scene.
Many of us at ECS travel over this bridge daily, especially our Primary and Intermediate School staff and families as it connects the Squirrel Hill and Point Breeze communities in the East End. Several of our students have participated in outdoor class and played on the trail near the bridge, and we recognize that this event is scary and may cause some confusion and anxiety. We understand that it is difficult to explain tragedies such as this to your student, and if you or your student are in need of additional support regarding this situation, please reach out to your building counselor or review Common Sense Media: Explaining the News to Our Kids. Our dedicated student services team is available to help any individual who may need resources or other materials.
While crews work at the bridge site, this will cause several significant traffic issues going forward in our community as it was a vital connection that supported many commutes in the East End. Please know that ECS is working with Sun Coach to develop an alternative route plan for buses that use the Fern Hollow Bridge regularly. We ask for patience and understanding on Monday as we continue to learn more about how this will affect travel. The safety of students and staff is our top priority, and the district will provide updates regarding transportation when available to ensure students arrive safely at school in a timely manner.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Stay safe and well,
Jon McCann, CEO
Amanda Cribbs, EdD, Superintendent
Dr. James Doyle, COO
Dwight Laufman, CSSO
