Block Island North Lighthouse Relighting Planned
By Sue Clark on Apr 2, 2008 in News 
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Lower Bid Received Than Anticipated
Set aside September 15, 2008 for the planned relighting of Block Island (Rhode Island) North Lighthouse. Not coincidentally, that will be exactly 140 years to the day that the first beam shown from this beacon. At a recent special Financial Town Meeting voters unanimously approved taking $100,000 from the town’s reserves to supplement the $430,000 grant already received. This money will be used as a contingency fund for the project, which was expected to cost $700,000.
However, bids came in much lower than anticipated, and the contract was awarded to experienced lighthouse renovation experts Campbell Construction Group of Beverly, Mass. The company has completed at least fifteen lighthouse projects, including Duxbury Pier Light, Thacher Island Light and Annisquam Light. Theirs was the lowest qualified bid at $479,000.
Presentation Detailed Work Needed
A presentation by the Chair of the North Light Commission, Rob Gilpin, before the vote highlighted the deteriorating condition of the building’s metal parts. He also reminded the packed crowd that a previous Town Council had agreed to designate the lighthouse a Private Aid to Navigation. This will allow the refurbished lens to be returned to the tower and relit, with Coast Guard approval.
Work on the light is expected to begin soon, and “if the weather holds,” the lantern can be removed and replaced in time for the September reopening. Gilpin also stated that neither quality or safety will be compromised in the rush to get it done.
After the article allowing the money transfer passed, the crowd cheered and applauded.
Photo Credit: North Lighthouse, Block Island by RunawayJim. Some rights reserved.
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