Onlookers were treated to a brief preview of the New NY Bridge’s night-time illuminations last week as the project team held the aesthetic lighting system’s first preliminary test.
The test on more than 20 piers lasted just over an hour, and it confirmed that energy was being sent to more than 220 fixtures on the westbound Rockland approach.
The system utilizes light-emitting-diodes, or LEDS, to illuminate the concrete piers and other parts of the bridge, including its eight iconic towers and cable-stay system. The LED fixtures have a projected 100,000-hour lifespan, roughly triple the lifespan of conventional lamps. The highly-efficient LED system will also use an estimated 75 percent less energy compared to traditional lighting technology.
Tappan Zee Constructors will test the remaining LED fixtures on the westbound piers in the coming weeks. Lighting designers will also confirm that each fixture follows the project’s sophisticated lighting plan. The plan was developed with the assistance of the project’s Visual Quality Panel to emphasize the distinct features of the new structure while respecting the scenic appearance of the Hudson Valley.
The state Thruway Authority will control the lighting system and may use changing light displays to mark special occasions and holidays.
