NEW ORLEANS, LA | Modjeski and Masters, a nationwide leader in the design, inspection, and rehabilitation of all bridge types, including long-span and movable structures, has been selected by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) to design a new decorative lighting system for the Crescent City Connection bridges in New Orleans.
Modjeski and Masters will design programmable color changeable LED lights illuminating the top and sides of the trusses of both bridges, along with the main piers. This will replace the original decorative amber-only lighting system which was installed in 1987. The age of the system, as well as damage from weather, necessitated a replacement. The project includes design plans, construction estimates, illumination analysis, renderings, and engineering calculations for the replacement.
“We are excited to bring this updated technology to the Crescent City Connection,” said Jonathan Gerhart, PE, Project Manager for Modjeski and Masters. “Bringing in the new programmable LED lights to replace the old amber necklace lights will not only elevate the look of the bridge, but will be a more efficient, sustainable lighting solution that will also be easier to maintain.”
Modjeski and Masters has been a fixture in New Orleans since the 1920s when the firm was awarded the design contract for the Huey P. Long Bridge. The firm opened its first office in New Orleans in 1947 and went on to design the Crescent City Connection as well as many other important crossings in the region.
“The Crescent City Connection is an iconic feature of the New Orleans skyline that will now illuminate the landscape even more. We’re honored to partner with LADOTD to improve the look and efficiency of the bridge lighting, and we look forward to city residents and visitors enjoying it as well,” said Cullen Ledet, PE, Senior Project Manager and New Orleans Regional Director for Modjeski and Masters.
The design is now underway with construction anticipated to begin later this year. The project will be completed by the end of 2024.
For more project information on the Crescent City Connection Decorative Lighting Project, visit http://wwwapps.dotd.la.gov/administration/announcements/Announcement.aspx?key=32268
To learn more about Modjeski and Masters’ history with the Cresent City Connection, visit https://www.modjeski.com/about/history-timeline/1950-1959/crescent-city-connection