Bridge Lighting Campaign Reaches $137,000

With just a little more than two months to go before the new Memorial Bridge opens in July, a capital campaign to raise $200,000 to light up the new span is making its final push to reach its goal.

According to Peter Somssich, who serves as co-chairman of the Memorial Bridge Illumination Subcommittee, the group has raised more than $137,000 from 95 individuals, 28 Portsmouth area businesses and groups.

As part of its fundraising campaign, the group is encouraging more people and groups to donate to be part of the Memorial Bridge Legacy Project.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for residents of the seacoast to make a lasting investment in a legacy project similar to how Prescott Park happened. After all, with a rating of over 100 years, the new bridge will outlive most of us," Somssich wrote in an e-mail.

Somssich also noted that people, businesses or groups that make donations of at least $1,000 or more will be recognized with a special plaque that will be located near the new Memorial Bridge.

Earlier this month, toward the Memorial Bridge lighting campaign and last winter.

Previously, Somssich said the subcommittee selected Lumen Pulse of Montreal, Canada to be the LED lighting vendor. When completed, Somssich wrote in his e-mail that white energy saving LED lighting to light the memorial plaque and pier footings and color-hangeable LEDs will illuminate the towers and the bridge center span.

People who wish can make tax-deductible donations to the “Portsmouth Historical Society” / Comment Bridge, and send them to Rose Eppard, 129 Daniel St., Portsmouth NH 03801. You can also contact Rose at eppard@usa.net.

For more information please visit www.PortsmouthBridges.com and www.MemorialBridgeProject.com.