November 30, 2012

NH won't pay for special lighting on Memorial Bridge

A state official says the lights aren't essential for transportation needs so the project should be a community initiative.

The Associated Press

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — Some Portsmouth residents want to add lighting to a new bridge being built between the seacoast community and the state of Maine, but the state of New Hampshire says it's not going to pay for the lights.

click image to enlarge

Concept image of bridge illumination from the city of Portsmouth website.

City of Portsmouth, N.H.

The new Memorial Bridge is under construction and due to open this summer.

Peter Somssich, chairman of the Portsmouth's Illumination Subcommittee, says it will cost between $60,000 and $80,000 to illuminate a memorial plaque for veterans, the footing of the bridge, the two piers and the towers.

Department of Transportation Project Manager Keith Cota says the lights aren't essential for transportation needs so the project should be a community initiative.

WMUR-TV says the Portsmouth City Council is expected to discuss ways to pay for the lighting at a meeting on Monday.

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