Community members can now register for an interactive bridge-building workshop in Brockport focused on canal lift bridges

Brockport, New York – A unique and engaging event is set to bring the community together for a hands-on exploration of engineering and local history. Registration is now open for “Bridging Brockport: Learn About Canal Lift Bridges,” an educational workshop hosted by It Begins in Brockport (IBiB), a local makerspace committed to creative learning.

The event offers participants a chance to dive into the fascinating world of bridge design by building their own structures and testing how they respond to real-world forces. It’s designed for curious minds of all ages, though younger attendees in grades 3 through 5 are asked to bring an adult helper for support.

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“Join us at the IBiB makerspace for an exciting workshop where you will learn how bridges react to forces by designing, testing, and improving your own unique bridge,” organizers said. “We’ll learn some bridge terminology and explore what shapes and design features make a bridge stable and stiff. We’ll also discuss how our very own lift bridges function.”

The event begins at the Welcome Center at 11 Water Street, where participants will gather before walking as a group to the IBiB makerspace located behind Hart Gallery27 on Market Street. There, the bridge-building activities will unfold in a fun, supportive environment. As the session winds down, and if time allows, the group will walk down to the canal waterfront for a live look at the area’s iconic lift bridges — a local feature that plays a critical role in transportation along the Erie Canal.

This is a ticketed event with limited space, allowing only six bridge builders per session. Tickets are required for each individual who will be building a bridge on their own, and participants must be at least 8 years old. Adults accompanying younger builders don’t need a ticket unless they plan to build a bridge themselves.

Accessibility is also a priority for this event. Organizers have included parking and restrooms at the Welcome Center, and they note that an ASL interpreter can be requested with four (4) days’ advance notice by emailing [email protected].

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The event blends creativity, engineering, and community spirit into one hands-on experience — all while highlighting a unique part of Brockport’s history.

To register and reserve your spot, visit Eventbrite and sign up before all the tickets are gone. Whether you’re a budding engineer or just fascinated by the wonders of lift bridges, this is one event you won’t want to miss.