Cuomo’s $100 Million Bridge Light Project Ends in Auction
Taxpayers in New York have lost over $100 million under former Governor Andrew Cuomo related to the “Harbor of Lights” initiative. This project aimed to install bespoke LED lighting on various bridges owned by the State University of New York, ostensibly to draw in more tourists. However, rather than being utilized, much of the equipment has been left in storage, ultimately auctioned off for a mere fraction of its initial cost.
Recent reports indicate that more than $108 million was initially allocated for this endeavor. Justin Driscoll, who leads the New York Electric Power Agency, expressed disbelief during an interview, stating, “What is that?” It seems like such a significant sum should’ve achieved more than this.
Cuomo unveiled the proposal in October 2016, with expectations of finishing by February 2018. Originally, $250 million was set aside, but due to various conflicts and priorities, top contractors had to halt lighting orders from Phillips essentially by late 2017. By then, substantial funds had already been expended, and the lighting fixtures were stored away, accumulating a storage cost of at least $2.1 million. Thankfully, taxpayers won’t carry this storage burden.
In 2021, a spokesperson for Cuomo claimed the project was still active, arguing that it would restore tourism to an economy hit hard by the pandemic. However, this seems optimistic, especially given the recent auction of the lighting equipment for a shocking $383,000, which equates to just 0.35% of the planned expense. Interestingly, Zoran Mamdani, a recent victor in the New York mayoral primary, was among the bidders and reportedly provided a small amount toward the auction.
Current New York Governor Kathy Hochul did not respond to inquiries regarding the auction that occurred during her administration. Cuomo, who held office from 2011 until August 2021, has been involved in various controversies, including serious allegations which he denied. Additionally, his administration has been criticized for underreporting nursing home deaths during the pandemic.
The Cuomo campaign did not reply to requests for comments about these developments.
