We all know that Piedmont Federal opens doors. But did you know we also build bridges? On November 19th community members, including Eric Hermanson and Ned Erickson, helped install a bridge over Peters Creek on the Crossnore campus just north of downtown Winston-Salem.

This bridge is part of the Emma and Stuart Thomas Memorial Trail, which will serve as a link between Boston/Thurmond and Buena Vista, two of the most disparate neighborhoods, in the Triad.

A few years ago, the Piedmont Land Conservancy was able to purchase, protect, and preserve the 213-acre property which contains Crossnore Children’s Home. 92 of these acres have been carved out with a conservation easement that will be turned into a public park and 3.5 miles of trails. This park will have access points in both neighborhoods.

Hence the bridge.

In many ways, the Children’s Home property, has served as a barrier between the wealthy and the poor in Winston-Salem. In about 200 yards, the average household income doubles or drops depending on which side of the divide you are standing on. Similar differences can be drawn in regard to race, education, and projected life span (a difference of 20 years!)

It will certainly take more than a single bridge in a public park to bridge the many things that separate us in this community, but it is a symbolic start.

I am proud that Piedmont Federal got to be a part of it.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Ned Erickson, the Director of Community Impact. nerickson@piedmontfederal.com