Bridge artwork to be dedicated Oct. 14

The Mississippi Department of Transportation will recognize the artists whose work has been installed on the Biloxi Bay Bridge during a public dedication ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 14, at 10 a.m. The event will be in the parking lot of the Isle of Capri Casino Resort in Biloxi within view of the bridge.

Speakers for the event include Southern District Transportation Commissioner Wayne Brown; Mayor A.J. Holloway of Biloxi; Mayor Connie Moran of Ocean Springs; Mississippi Department of Transportation Executive Director Larry L. “Butch” Brown; Andrew Hughes, FHWA Division Administrator; and Greg Moran, sculptor.

MDOT commissioned Greg Moran to render 18 two-dimensional drawings into three-dimensional bronze plaques for display on the bridge. The artwork, created by local artists with subjects that reflect life on the Gulf Coast, was selected through a competition. The metal used to produce the plaques is itself symbolic: It was recovered from the original bridge, destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The plaques have been installed at intervals along the railing of the bridge’s bicycle and pedestrian walkway.

“We are extremely pleased with the work of the artists and Greg Moran, and delighted to recognize their contributions to this beautiful bridge,” said Commissioner Brown. “We encourage area residents and visitors to take a stroll along the walkway to appreciate each of these pieces as well as the stunning views from the bridge.”