Special Holiday Light Show Announced for Labor Day Weekend
Fort Wayne, Ind. – On behalf of the City of Fort Wayne, Mayor Tom Henry today received a plaque in honor of the award-winning Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Bridge.
Staff members of DLZ Indiana, LLC presented the commemorative display which includes the recent award from the American Society of Landscape Architects and a photo of the bridge with red, white and blue lights, taken at the dedication ceremony on June 4, 2012.
"As this week marks the 50th anniversary of Dr. King's 'I Have a Dream' speech, it's only fitting to reflect on the impact his efforts had on cities across the country, including Fort Wayne," said Mayor Tom Henry. "Our beautiful bridge is a symbol of unity in our community, a welcoming gateway into downtown and has become a favorite spot for photographs with family and friends. With the holiday weekend upon us, I've asked that we display a special light show from the original dedication and include a patriotic display of our nation's flag colors."
More than 1200 light fixtures exhibit an array of colors that can be programmed to display millions of shades of color. This weekend – Friday, Aug. 30 thru Monday, Sept. 2 -- the lighting will feature the original light show used at the dedication ceremony, as well as a vibrant red, white and blue display. It's a great opportunity for photos and a free family activity this Labor Day weekend.
The iconic gateway has become a favorite for video news opens, promotional and marketing photos depicting our City and resident keepsake photos. Additionally, visitors are drawn to the exclusive sculptural etchings and 25 plaques with quotes from Dr. King; wide, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and seating midway across the bridge; and two sets of stairs connecting to the Rivergreenway below.
"DLZ Indiana is proud to have played a role in honoring Dr. King's legacy with the design of this magnificent gateway into downtown Fort Wayne," said John Nelson, Project Manager at DLZ, Indiana, LLC. "The bridge and its related infrastructure serves as a central location where walkers, bicyclists, motorists, and boaters can appreciate the near north side of downtown Fort Wayne. The bridge should provide an opportunity for generations to appreciate Dr. King's thoughts and deeds."
The award attached to today's commemorative plaque was originally presented late last year by the Indiana Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects for outstanding "Constructed Works."
The City has been recognized with two other awards for the bridge earlier this year. The American Council of Engineering Companies recognized DLZ Indiana by awarding the Engineering Excellence Merit Award.
Also in 2013, the Indiana Partnership for Transportation Quality awarded the City an Achievement Award for an Urban Bridge.
A smaller version of the plaque was presented to the Division of Public Works which oversaw the building of the bridge and worked closely with DLZ, the State of Indiana and a citizens committee in the design of the gateway structure.
In addition to the special light show this weekend Mayor Henry announced that the light show used at the dedication ceremony will be used each weekend through the end of the year.
Residents can look for special holiday colors on Halloween, Thanksgiving and throughout the December holiday season.