The Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority today announced that it has awarded a contract to Schenectady Hardware and Electric for $235,211 to light up three bridges in downtown Schenectady.  The company was the low bidder of six bids received by Metroplex.

Mayor Gary McCarthy said, “Lighting up rail bridges downtown with LED technology helps to shine a light on pedestrian areas underneath these bridges improving safety and accessibility.  We have received very positive feedback from the public on the other two bridges where we installed new lighting so we are pleased to continue this effort.”

Ray Gillen, Metroplex Chair said, “By improving the lighting on major rail bridges, we create a brighter, more inviting and attractive downtown. We are pleased to partner with the City to light up these bridges in the Electric City.”

Energy efficient LED lights will be placed under three bridges in downtown Schenectady, including a rail bridge between Broadway and Erie Boulevard, plus bridges at Green Street and Front Street.  The State Street Bridge will also feature exterior lighting.  The project was designed by Lighting Dynamic, a division of M/E Engineering which has an office at 433 State Street in Schenectady.

The City of Schenectady will contribute $70,000 toward the cost of lighting upgrades.  The balance of project costs will be paid for by Metroplex.

The City with support from National Grid has already added new lighting under the Union Street and Liberty Street bridges.  The new LED lights are consistent with Schenectady’s Smart City program.

Metroplex and the City are also working to light up the rail bridge that crosses Erie Boulevard at Union Street.  This would be done in cooperation the NYS Department of Transportation and Amtrak.

Work on the three bridges will be completed later this year.