Fiola: ‘This is Just Phase 1′ of Braga Bridge Lighting

The SouthCoast got an unexpected surprise on Tuesday night when a switch was flipped and the Braga Bridge was suddenly illuminated with bright blue lights.

State Rep. Carole Fiola joined us this morning on Michael and Maddie. Fiola made it crystal clear that the majority of the credit should go to Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito.

"She was in Fall River for a lunch with local business leaders. I told her that we've wanted to light up the bridge for years. She said, 'Give me a few days to work on it.' A few days later she called back and said, 'We're going to get this done.'"

Fiola: 'This is Just Phase 1'

"What you see now is not what it's ultimately going to be," Fiola told Fun 107. This is a temporary Phase 1.  Mass DOT says it's at 25% of the design contract. There's a plan underway, it's not going backwards. The funds are committed."

The Braga Bridge's New Light Colors

For now, the bridge has seven colors that can be used including Braga blue (which is the default color), orange, white, yellow, pink, purple and teal. Coming soon will be every color on the spectrum.

When Will Phase 2 Be Completed?

Fiola told us that Phase 2 will be completed in the late spring/early summer of 2023.

While only the center of the Fall River landmark has been lit for Phase 1, we can expect to see even more lighting both underneath the bridge and also on the entire upper structure in Phase 2.

We'll also have access to unlimited color combinations for the lighting in Phase 2.

"The public will be able to request certain color combinations that can change on demand," says Fiola.  "It's a positive look for Fall River."