Rebuild the Bridge to Scutchalo

By Selika Sweet, M.D., FAAFP

JA Guest Writer

Hidden deep in the woods of Claiborne County, just outside Utica and near the Hinds County line, lies one of Mississippi’s most extraordinary natural wonders – a secluded waterfall quietly captivating visitors from across the country and even as far as Scotland. Some are drawn by the legend of gold said to rest at its base. Most come for what it truly offers: beauty, peace, and a breath of calm in a noisy world.

But for those who live nearby, this place is far more than a scenic escape.

It’s a part of everyday life. Generations of hunters know its woods. Families have walked its quiet trails. And every summer, Latino communities gather here to celebrate – bringing music, dance, food, and joy to the forest. It is, quite simply, a place where people come together.

Long before it became a local treasure for recreation, Scutchalo served an essential purpose for the community. The waterfall once powered a grist mill, grinding corn grown by area farmers. The old post that anchored the mill can still be seen today – a silent witness to generations who worked the land, shared its bounty, and relied on each other to get by. This is not just nature – it’s heritage.

Until they couldn’t reach it.

More than a year ago, a storm destroyed the bridge that once connected this cherished site to Hinds County. Since then, the bridge remains in ruins – surrounded by fallen trees and forgotten promises. What was once a short, familiar drive has become a 30-minute detour through Cayuga. And still, no action has been taken.

When I reached out to the District 5 Supervisor’s office, the answer was clear – and disappointing:

“It would cost $5 million. We just don’t have the money.”

Yet, Hinds County is preparing to spend more than $60 million to build a new jail. So we must ask: What are we really choosing to build?

More walls – or more bridges?

What if we used just a fraction of that jail budget to restore the Bridge to Scutchalo – reopening access to a space that brings joy, unity, and healing?

What if nonviolent offenders helped rebuild it – learning skills, gaining purpose, and contributing to something lasting and good?

What if we reimagined justice not just as punishment – but as participation and restoration?

This bridge is more than wood, steel, or concrete.

It’s a symbol of priorities. A crossroads between isolation and connection; between neglect and opportunity; between what divides us and what brings us together.

This is a place that has always served the people – first through its mill, and now as a shared refuge. It has seen generations lean on it in different ways. What message do we send if we let it fall into further disrepair while funding new facilities that focus only on confinement?

If we can afford $60 million for incarceration, surely we can find $5 million for reconnection.

It’s time to rebuild the Bridge to Scutchalo.

For access. For equity. For history. For the future.

Call Hinds County Supervisor District 5 at (601) 968-6699.

Speak up. Speak out. Let them know: Scutchalo matters. The people matter. It’s time to rebuild.