On Monday night, the architectural lights on the new bridge lit up in bright colors, providing a visual reminder of its importance to international trade and regional commerce. The nearly 200 energy-saving LED lights were turned on for the first time to illuminate the two 515-foot-tall towers and 80 cables holding the main span portion of the nearly 2‑mile-long bridge.
Mario Cordero, Executive Director for the Port of Long Beach, said the colored lights will offer an entirely new look for the international shipping complex, which has seen record months for container cargo shipments. “I believe our well-lit bridge will serve as a beacon to many ships from around the world that come to the Port of Long Beach.”
For that first night, the lights were programmed to display 15 different scenes, including Hanukkah, Christmas, Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Lakers colors, and the Port of Long Beach’s brand colors (turquoise, navy blue, and white). On Tuesday night, the lights began their pre-programmed schedule to mark holidays, such as Independence Day and Christmas, and special occasions, such as the Olympics and Pride Month. A blue-and-white Hanukkah theme kicked off the schedule.