The Bay Lights from Words Pictures Ideas on Vimeo.

Testing will begin this evening on LED lights strung along the Bay Bridge’s western span as part of an art installation intended to mark the bridge’s 75th anniversary, organizers said.

The installation is an $8 million light “sculpture” by artist Leo Villareal known as “The Bay Lights.”

Testing will begin after dark today and continue through Tuesday.

About 40 percent of the 25,000 lights have been installed for the project, which will be completed and unveiled on March 5, according to organizers.

Villareal will be testing the sequencing of the lights with his technical team tonight. The installation will not be visible to drivers on the bridge but can be seen from a distance.

Once the project is completed, the lights will be turned on for about seven hours each night.

Organizers are still seeking $2.3 million in funds to finish the project. People wishing to donate or find out more about “The Bay Lights” can visit www.thebaylights.org.

Dan McMenamin, Bay City News

Want more news, sent to your inbox every day? Then how about subscribing to our email newsletter? Here’s why we think you should. Come on, give it a try.

Please make sure your comment adheres to our comment policy. If it doesn't, it may be deleted. Repeat violations may cause us to revoke your commenting privileges. No one wants that!