The Mackinac Bridge Authority on Nov. 7 reported progress on a project to replace aging toll canopy message boards that are no longer supported by their manufacturer.

Caitlin, the staff member leading the effort, said AECON completed design work for new message boards and associated wiring; the new system will use modern lighting and integrate with the authority’s CAMI tool system. Arcadis will perform construction engineering and systems integration work, and the authority’s security consultant will handle networking aspects. Staff said they expect to begin construction as early as spring and aim to finish by Memorial Day so the new signs are supported and maintainable for a longer period than the current hardware.

The authority is moving the work through the bidding and contracting process; staff said they were close to awarding construction work pending final bid checks.