Observant drivers* have noticed that lights have been removed from the Cribari Bridge.
For 25 years, they were lit the day after Thanksgiving. Then, every night through New Year’s, hundreds of colorful holiday bulbs brightened everyone’s passage across the 135-year-old span.
(Photo/Andrew Colabella)
A couple of weeks ago, they were removed. It’s unclear by whom — probably the state Department of Transportation — but recently several came loose, and hit at least one vehicle.
For a quarter century the lights were provided by Al’s Angels. Al DiGuido’s non-profit supports children and families battling cancer, rare blood diseases, natural disasters and severe financial hardship.
This year, Al’s Angels can no longer provide and maintain the lights.
(Photo/Joel Treisman)
Is this the end of a beloved 25-year tradition?
No!
Second Selectwoman Andrea Moore, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, Police Corporal Craig Bergamo, Representative Town Meeting members Kristin Mott Purcell and Andrew Colabella, and a few other Westporters began working on a solution.
It’s not as easy as buying new lights, finding volunteers to string and test them, and throwing a switch.
The bridge must be closed for several hours to do the work. Questions about power sources loomed.
(Photo/Patti Brill)
But within 2 days the community came together. Every problem was solved.
The Bridge at Saugatuck — the new, instantly popular restaurant a few yards from the Cribari Bridge — plus Saugatuck Financial and Neat Lending quickly became lead sponsors.
Other sponsors include LandTech, Westport PAL, the Colabella family, and our very own “06880” blog.
A source was located. The lights are being shipped overnight from Georgia.
Late Sunday night, they’ll be strung on the bridge. Saugatuck-based AJ Penna & Son Construction will help make it happen.
The final piece will be an official lighting ceremony. When it’s set, “06880” will let everyone know.
In the space of a few days, the sad prospect of a dark Cribari Bridge turned very, very bright.
It’s a Christmas miracle, Westport-style.
*Perhaps that’s an oxymoron.
(Photo/Andrew Colabella)