Bridge lighting is a beacon of hope for future
Global Rail Services, our multi-disciplinary rail and infrastructure contracting business based in Dublin, has delivered an exciting project on behalf Iarnrod Eireann (Irish Rail) – an ambitious new lighting system on the White Bridge over the Shannon in Athlone.
The system, which is the latest in LED lighting technology, has been successfully commissioned by the Global Rail Services team and facilitates the illumination of the southern face of the bridge in a variety of colour tones and lighting sequences.
Mayor of Athlone Cllr Aengus O’Rourke has hailed the result of investment by and said: “I had the pleasure of working closely with senior management in the Infrastructure section of Iarnrod Eireann in recent years. And what started out back then as a discussion around the possibility of cleaning and painting the bridge soon developed into a conversation about a much more ambitious lighting project.
“Two years later and I am absolutely delighted with the outcome. I have learned so much in that time about the opportunities and capabilities of new design lighting technologies that will enhance our town.”
The metre-long sections fixed to the southern face of the bridge are capable of illuminating in any colour tone imaginable and can be programmed to flash or run from left to right from middle to edges and in any colour.
Mayor O’Rourke said that there were many trials and demonstrations and the end result is a perfect fit for the bridge and for the town:
“The ‘Instagram moment’ that has been talked about previously on the new bridge as people step from East to West and visa versa, has now been joined by a second ‘Insta moment’ opportunity for those crossing the bridge.
“Every little thing we do to enhance the town and our image is a bonus and feeds into our plan to be a great town to live in, visit, study in and do business in. And, the more positive memories people take with them from Athlone the better.
“The bridge will be lit-up every night 365 days a year and lights will be coloured in keeping with the season or in support of local initiatives.
“This would allow, for example, Christmas lighting, St Patrick’s Day lighting or particular colours to be chosen to coincide with charity events or special occasions.
“My sincere hope as we see out this challenging and difficult year, is that this new vibrant and joyful display of lights will act as a beacon to brighter days ahead for us all and for Athlone.”
Cllr Frankie Keena also welcomed the new lighting and thanked Irish Rail. He said: “It is a really impressive lighting display, which will contribute enormously to the ambiance of the area.”
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