My name is Paige Connery and after seven long years, I am working on my eagle project. I am a founding member of Troop 189 G. My patrol and I have been on so many amazing adventures together, and we've learned some tough lessons. 

In the arboretum at Pierce College exists a Braille Trail. It is a roughly 1/4 mile loop that is lined on both sides with a guide rope. Visually Impaired visitors can choose either side of the loop and follow the guide rope around. Each path features Braille signs that contain information about the surroundings for visitors. Additionally, the paths have the occasional planter box full of plants that have unique textures and scents. The trail is designed to give the visually impaired community an outdoor experience that can be enjoyed without sight. Over the years vandalism and weather have posed an issue for the trail. The rope wore away and the posts rusted and fell over. My project is to reinstall 24 of these posts, restring the guide rope, and plant ten-gallon plants in the center of the loop.

The beneficiary of the project is a Los Angeles two-year public college. Pierce College aims to positively impact people’s lives by providing quality, inclusive, and innovative academic, technical, and cultural educational opportunities. Pierce is committed to providing caring, equitable services to help their diverse students achieve their goals and thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

There are unfortunately not many activities designed specifically for the visually impaired community. Even fewer activities outdoors. The Braille Trail provides a free experience that awakens the mind and stimulates the senses. With the renewal of the Braille Trail, the Los Angeles Braille Institute will have another resource to rely on for fun outings. When the Trail was in peak condition the Institute would bring vanloads of people multiple times a week. I hope to restore the Braille Trail to its former glory and to create an inclusive experience for the visually impaired.