MILWAUKEE — The Hoan Bridge’s east side, which hadn’t initially had lights, is now officially lit up.

What You Need To Know

  • The Hoan Bridge is now lit on the east side after only having the west side lit up for years

  • It follows months of planning, installation and testing

  • There was no public ceremony to celebrate the launch, but visitors can now see them

Light the Hoan, the nonprofit dedicated to work on the bridge, announced on Friday that the lights facing the harbor side are now active.

It follows months of planning, installation and testing. The nonprofit called it a “major milestone.”

“This moment reflects the strength of Milwaukee’s vision, its people, and the power of what we can create when we come together,” said Erika Smith, executive director of Light the Hoan. “Milwaukee’s skyline is forever changed — and the lights are just the beginning.”

The debut of the lights took place without a public ceremony. Visitors can now visit the bridge to view the full display on both sides.

Light the Hoan said it has several upcoming events that will highlight the newly transformed bridge.

That includes a free summer concert series on Wednesdays beginning on July 9. The Live at the Lakefront series will feature a 10-minute light show and performances from musical groups at the Rotary Ampitheater at Discovery World.

The Hoan’s annual intern challenge will also take place on Wednesday, July 23. Over 400 interns from 14 companies will compete in a light show design challenge, which will end with a public light show celebration.

The nonprofit said having the east side now lit up will give the interns more “creative potential.”

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