Developing a complex model to test various replacement lighting types and placements led to an award-winning design
Peace Bridge, the scenic span that connects the US and Canada in Buffalo, New York, was previously served by HID lighting—a pure white light option that consumed a great deal of energy. When the Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority wanted a better option, they asked us to design it.
Coming up with a new lighting design was a complex task, especially given the 100-year-old bridge's open steel arches which supported a narrow superstructure and the Parker Truss, a vertical element above the deck. Our designers had to create a lighting scheme where fixtures could be mounted, maintained, and hidden from view while providing sufficient light, minimum spillage, and views of the arches.
Our lighting model showed that down-lighting minimized light spillage, avoided lighting the deck's underside, and accentuated the arches. It also allowed the catwalk under the deck to be used for mounting and maintaining the fixtures. Specialty lighting was designed and located within the Parker Truss, carefully aimed to avoid driver glare.
We used new LED fixtures that provided the greatest cost savings and flexibility. They were placed inside the superstructure directly beneath the roadway, directed downward, and designed to withstand significant vibrations. And the result? Major energy cost savings as well as the ability to provide multi-colored lighting, an exciting opportunity for the iconic bridge.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Award
- ACEC, New York, Engineering Excellence Awards Diamond Award, 2010
- IES Rochester, Harley Hill Excellence in Lighting Award, 2010
- New York Construction News Award of Merit, Small Project, Best of 09
Jeri Pickett, Principal
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