The Big Four Bridge

Date Started
March 2025
Date Completed
April 2015
Location
Louisville,
KY /
The Big Four Bridge

Project Overview

The Big Four Bridge, named for a historic railroad, connects Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana, and has become a popular destination with an estimated one million visitors in its first two years. The city of Louisville repurposed the historic bridge into a pedestrian walkway and bicycle path to help revitalize the area running over the Ohio River. After two years as a successful daytime spot, the city of Louisville and the Waterfront Development Corporation wanted to enhance the bridge with color-changing light, transforming it into an art installation for all to enjoy.

Scope of Work

Motion and color were essential for creating the look and feel that the Waterfront Development Corp. desired to add to the area. ColorBurst Powercore fixtures were mounted to the steel structure under the arches and along the deck, while ColorBlast Powercore fixtures were placed inside hollow beams to mix the light. Together, over 1,400 fixtures display light in colors that can be customized for holidays and city events. The daily, dynamic light show lasts from dusk to 12:30 a.m., displaying over 16 million colors.

Goals and Challenges

  • Creating a beacon of visual interest for the surrounding neighborhoods.
  • Providing a dazzling backdrop for activities along Louisville’s Waterfront.
  • Coordinating with government officials, private donors, civic groups, and other stakeholders to bring the project to fruition.

Gear List

  • Philips Color Kinetics ColorBurst Powercore
  • Philips Color Kinetics ColorBlast Powercore
  • Pharos LPC4 Controller
  • Pharos TPC Control
"Motion and color were essential for creating the look and feel that the Waterfront Development Corp. desired to add to the area."

Team Members Involved

Debra Rettich
Account Executive
Trevor Shibley
Project Manager
Matt Klasmeier
Service Technician

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