By Y.M. Lowy

If you’re traveling on the George Washington Bridge after dark, you’ll soon notice something new.

The Port Authority announced that, for the first time since the bridge opened in 1931, the bridge’s iconic towers will be illuminated every evening from dusk until 10:00 p.m.

The permanent lighting debuts as part of this year’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. While the bridge’s cable lights have long been a familiar lit up sight, the towers themselves were previously lit only on special occasions and holidays.

The upgrade was made possible by the installation of new energy-efficient LED lighting, replacing the older bulbs that had been in use for decades. The new system uses less energy, allowing the landmark to be illuminated on a nightly basis.