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Replacement of Simon Kenton Bridge ‘Necklace’ Lights nearly Complete

The Ledger Independent

Installation of new decorative lighting across the Simon Kenton Memorial Bridge in downtown Maysville is nearly complete.

With 144 new LED fixtures in place, contractors are now finalizing electrical connections and other work. Testing could occur within the next couple of weeks, weather permitting.

The testing phase – known as a “burn-in” – includes temporarily turning on the lights one or more times to ready the LEDs for continuous burn and to check for faults in the electrical system. The lights will then switch off for final inspection, and to make any repairs or perform final contract work before being fully activated.

While construction work continues, the Simon Kenton Bridge (US 62) will remain subject to daytime closures.

Motorists who use the bridge to cross between Kentucky and Ohio must detour 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each weekday, and possibly weekends, using KY 8 and US 68, or US 52 in Ohio, and the nearby William Harsha Bridge (US 68).

In February 2014, the Transportation Cabinet switched off the Simon Kenton’s decorative lighting — known as the “necklace” lights — after a review found exposed wiring, inadequate or damaged connectors, damaged and missing junction box covers, possible short circuits and other public safety issues. Tower lights, which are on a separate circuit, street lights, and navigational lights remain unaffected.

Electrical contractors inspected the lighting system that summer. Afterward, the cabinet worked with consulting engineers and the City of Maysville on plans to replace the lights, then began designing a new system. Construction drawings were finalized, and the state advertised for bids on the project last summer.

Bansal Construction Inc. of Fairfield, Ohio, was awarded the project under a $382,831.86 low-bid contract with the Transportation Cabinet.

Work began in mid-November to remove the old lights and wiring from the Simon Kenton’s suspension cables, and replace them with the new LED lights and a safer, more reliable electrical system.

Once complete, the new lighting system will be maintained by the City of Maysville.

(story provided by the Kentucky Department of Highways District 9)

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