Knoxville’s Henley Bridge Lights Up Again After Six-Year Hiatus
Knoxville residents gathered with excitement yesterday as the iconic Henley Bridge lit up for the first time in six years. The vibrant orange and white lights brought a sense of celebration and brightness back to the city, marking a significant technological upgrade for the pedestrian bridge.
The Return of the Lights
Many Knoxville locals fondly remember the bridge’s colored lights, which once showcased a spectrum of hues for various events. From turning purple in homage to Prince to shining in red, white, and blue for national holidays, the lights have long been a part of the city’s fabric. However, six years ago, these lights went dark due to weather and humidity damage. Last night, joy filled the air as the lights were ceremonially illuminated once more.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Organized by Ginger Jamrog, the owner and business manager of LED Lighting Concepts, the relighting ceremony showcased a new, state-of-the-art light system. “We are proud to make our hometown the first large city in the nation to use this new technology,” she stated. The bridge will now utilize a combination of LED and mesh technology, ensuring multiple colors can shine proudly for future celebrations.
A Local Collaboration
The project was a successful collaboration between Jamrog’s company, the City of Knoxville Engineering Department, and staff from the Signal Shop. Together, they dismantled and cleaned the original 180 lights—90 on each side of the bridge—establishing an upgraded system that is not only more reliable but also works wirelessly through Bluetooth mesh technology.
Upcoming Celebrations
The new lights will allow for an impressive array of colors, with plans for the bridge to honor various events. Next week, as part of the Knox Asian Festival, the bridge will shine in multiple colors. In October, the lights will turn pink to raise awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Furthermore, when significant national occasions occur, such as Knoxville’s founding anniversary or an upcoming election day, the lights will proudly reflect the patriotic red, white, and blue.
A Cost-Effective Solution
Mayor Kincannon highlighted the financial benefits of the new lighting system, emphasizing that the smart lamp bulbs cost only one-tenth of the previous lighting arrangements. This approach not only supports local business but also simplifies maintenance and operation. “We’re excited to have found a cost-effective solution that will again allow us to program the bridge lights in almost any color combinations to celebrate local festivals, public events, and causes dear to Knoxvillians’ hearts,” she said.
The History Behind the Lights
The original lighting system was part of a significant reconstruction project costing $24.6 million, initiated in 2011. The older system used DMX cable, a technology primarily used in indoor theaters, which ultimately did not withstand the external elements. In contrast, the newly installed equipment is wireless and can be easily activated using a password-protected phone or tablet, showcasing how far the technology has come in just a few years.
Plans for the Future
As Knoxville embraces this shiny new chapter for the Henley Bridge, residents look forward to seeing the bridge lit up for various local festivities. A full schedule for upcoming light displays through the end of 2024 is available online. As the city continues to grow and change, the lights provide a constant source of joy and celebration, promising a brighter future ahead.
