The city of Memphis received US $12 million from anonymous donors to illuminate two bridges with LEDs. The two bridges, Harahan and Hernando de Soto, are few of the most iconic images of the city, said Jim Strickland, Memphis Mayor.

A rendering of the Harahan Bridge, lit with a combination of different colors at special event. (Photo courtesy of the city of Memphis)

Strickland approved the installation of LEDs on the Harahan Bridge and the Big River Crossing Boardwalk by signing a set of agreements.

All costs for the purchase and installation of LED lighting system will be fully covered by a generous donation made by citizens of the community. Aside from the US $10 million donation for lighting the donors also leave US $1.5 million for maintenance, management and operation of the lighting. It’s expected that the maintenance cost will be able to last for more than 15 years.

The lighting system and the installation will be provided by Philips Lighting. The programmable lights will create dynamic lighting effect between the two bridges along the Mississippi River.

The city of Memphis plans to complete the installation on the Harahan by Oct. 22, followed by the installation of Hernando de Soto.