More than two years after sustaining crippling damages from the floodwaters of Tropical Storm Irene, the Taftsville Covered Bridge was re-opened on September 7, 2013. The $2.5 million project resulted in a structure that while incorporating most of the original supporting timbers, looks brand-new! The opening ceremony featured an oral history of the bridge delivered in exemplary style by a sixth grade Taftsville resident, as well as speeches by state and local officials, including Vermont Congressman Peter Welch. The ribbon cutting was followed by a transportation-themed parade (horses and wagons, vintage cars through the years, to this year's Fords, courtesy of Gateway Motors). The public was then invited to cross the bridge for a Community Picnic complete with live band, at the home on the north side. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the reconnecting of the communities that were severed by Irene.