The Crescent City Connection (CCC) is an iconic twin cantilever bridge spanning the Mississippi River in New Orleans, Louisiana. Initially constructed as a single span, the first bridge opened in 1958 under the design direction of Modjeski and Masters, Inc., a renowned bridge engineering firm.
The bridge gained its current name in 1989 after the second parallel span was completed in 1988, providing additional capacity to support New Orleans’ transportation needs. Today, both spans are operated and maintained by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (La DOTD), underscoring their vital role in the region’s infrastructure.
The CCC’s design is a recognizable example of mid-20th-century American cantilever bridge engineering, with bold steel framework and graceful lines that have become a defining feature of the New Orleans skyline. Each span supports four lanes of traffic, while the newer bridge also includes High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes to ease congestion during peak hours. As one of Louisiana’s busiest traffic corridors, the bridge has an annual traffic volume exceeding 63 million vehicles, serving as a crucial transportation link and an iconic landmark integral to the region’s economy.
The CCC has also appeared in film, most notably in Déjà Vu (2006), where its dramatic structure enhances the New Orleans backdrop for action scenes. The bridge’s iconic appearance has made it a favorite for movie productions needing a recognizable New Orleans setting.
The bridge originally featured a decorative lighting system installed in 1987. It started to show their age since the 2010s due to harsh sun and weather, and in 2021 Hurricane Ida caused significant damage to the system. Tasked to provide suitable product for the new lighting system, GVA contributed advanced FL spot / flood lights, and highly custom STR9 series luminaires specifically engineered for this project. The 78kw INFINITY® power supply system, offers high energy efficiencies and lowered cost due to reduced need for extra cabling and wall penetrations.
These products were selected for their durability and energy efficiency, ensuring they could withstand New Orleans’ challenging climate while enhancing the bridge’s visual appeal.
With the updated lighting system, the Crescent City Connection offers a captivating presence after dark. Thoughtfully positioned fixtures highlight the bridge’s geometry, blending historical essence with modern elegance.
This project underscores the involved parties’ commitment to quality and engineering excellence. Despite the bridge’s unique demands, the teams coordinated effectively from order to production and installation, delivering a beautifully illuminated, energy-efficient, and weather-resistant lighting solution. The Crescent City Connection now shines as a testament to both New Orleans’ enduring heritage and GVA Lighting’s dedication to creating new beauty for our home planet.
