The unveiling and illumination of a major lighting scheme on the white bridge which traverses the River Shannon in the heart of Athlone has been hailed by Town Mayor, Cllr Aengus O’Rourke.
“I had the pleasure of working closely with senior management within the infrastructure section of Iarnrod Eireann in recent years and what commenced as a discussion pertaining to the possibility of cleaning and painting the bridge soon developed into a conversation about a much more ambitious lighting project,” the Town Mayor remarked.
Following a two year programme of works, the realisation of this in-depth lighting project is certain to glean much positive reaction from within the local community and visitors to the town as the illuminations further enhance the wealth of attractions which Athlone has to offer.
“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.
“Fixed to the southern face of the White Bridge is metre long lighting sections that are capable of illuminating in any colour tone imaginable. The entire line of lights can be programmed to flash or run from left to right from middle to edges and in any colour. The project was delivered by Global Rail Services who were a pleasure to work with and very professional. Many trials and demonstrations took place during the course of the last year and the end result is a perfect fit for the bridge and for the town. Iarnrod Eireann have made this investment, they were adamant to do it right from the beginning and they certainly have delivered in great measure for Athlone,” Cllr O’Rourke continued.
Coupled with the provincial border crossing which will be a feature on the new cycleway bridge construction in 2023, the illuminated White Bridge will afford those an ‘Instagram moment’ with the spectacular lighting infrastructure certain to be a feature on social media pages for many when it is fully operational.
“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 in to our plan to be a great town in which to live, visit, study and do business. Obviously, the more positive memories people take with them from Athlone the better,” Cllr O’Rourke asserted.
The lights as they adorn the White Bridge will change colour in recognition of certain occasions and local initiatives.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Liam Hickey, Infrastructure Manager Iarnrod Eireann and Damien Milton, Infrastructure Support on this project. The lights are now in place, the bridge will be illuminated every night 365 days a year and the lights will be coloured in keeping with the season or in support of local initiatives.
“For example, it is envisaged that for Christmas the lights will be red, for St Patrick’s day they can be illuminated green or even the colours of green, white and orange can be shone brightly across the bridge. Likewise, in support of charity events or special occasions a particular colour can be chosen. The lights work on a remote control system, so from an office in town the lights can be programmed and the time they come on can be scheduled. The system is the latest in LED design lighting technology.
“I wonder what GW Hemans would think today if he were to see the bridge that he designed 170 years ago, emblazoned in vibrant colours, I’m sure he would approve. The bridge, 542 feet in length, was first opened to rail traffic in 1851, after taking 18 months to complete. In 1972 the central span was fixed, up to that it could open to accommodate tall boats.
“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,” the Town Mayor concluded.
