Local Project Feature: The Honey Run Covered Bridge

It’s no secret the community is at the heart of Mathews Readymix. Since 1947, we’ve been invested in helping our friends and neighbors in Butte County through good times and bad. So when the opportunity came up to help rebuild a local icon in Paradise, we jumped at the chance. 

Rebuilding the Honey Run Covered Bridge

When the Camp Fire destroyed the Honey Run Covered Bridge in 2018, it took away more than just a 131-year-old historic structure. The pedestrian-only footbridge was a place of memories for generations in Butte County, where folks went to get engaged, celebrate milestones, and swim in Butte Creek while seeking refuge from a hot California summer day. Many residents were devastated at its loss, but in 2019 a group of determined individuals quickly rallied to form the Honey Run Covered Bridge Association, a non-profit aiming to rebuild the beloved community icon.

The Honey Run Covered Bridge prior to the Camp Fire; image courtesy of the Honey Run Covered Bridge Association.

Mathews Readymix joins the cause

Part of being a good neighbor is valuing what our community finds important. After watching so many people and businesses rally behind the Honey Run Covered Bridge, we wanted to contribute. So when Phase 1 of the rebuild began with the foundation, columns, abutments, and slope protection, we joined in. The bridge needed 400 cubic yards of concrete to start the critical foundation work – enough to fill 100 swimming pools! – and we proudly donated the full amount. Our donation meant Phase 1 of the rebuild was able to be completed in November 2020. 

Final funds needed are secured 

Exciting news! The HRCBA recently announced they will receive a financial settlement from the Fire Victim Trust. Combined with the donations already raised, the rebuilding process for the Honey Run Covered Bridge can continue and be completed. Phase 2, deck and trusses, will begin soon and be finished in around 6-9 months, and then Phase 3, the siding and roof, will follow. After such a long fundraising journey, this is an incredibly hopeful final step.

"I think it's a symbol of resilience and recovery for this entire area,” says Honey Run Covered Bridge Association President Walt Schafer. “This was a symbol, an iconic symbol of our canyon, Chico, Paradise, this whole region. It was a tremendous loss and people care deeply about getting it rebuilt…As the 5th anniversary of the Camp Fire approaches, the Association welcomes the time when the Honey Run Covered Bridge will once again be a place to celebrate, unite, and create memories."

At Mathews Readymix, we strive to help build and grow the communities we are a part of, including rebuilding lost landmarks like the Honey Run Covered Bridge. So next time you see one of our blue stripe trucks, we hope you’ll remember the importance of being a good neighbor and consider donating to support the HRCBA’s upkeep of the Covered Bridge Park. And as always, you can contact us for all your ready-mix concrete needs.