Our work took place at the Port of Coeymans in upstate New York, where three massive bridge sections were constructed before being floated down the Hudson River to their final installation site. Martin Electric was tasked with outfitting these structures with the electrical infrastructure necessary to support high-voltage power, communication systems, and lighting components vital to the bridge’s function and safety. The project represented an ambitious convergence of industrial construction, transportation infrastructure, and marine logistics—and Martin Electric met the challenge with precision, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to quality.
Martin Electric’s role involved installing seventeen 4-inch galvanized rigid conduits beneath each of the three bridge sections. These conduits serve as pathways for critical systems including overhead catenary power, 15kV medium voltage distribution, fiber optic communications, track switch heaters, cathodic protection, and navigation lighting. In addition to conduit installation, we provided full interior lighting and convenience power for all six arches of the bridge, ensuring safe access for inspection and maintenance crews.
During the construction phase, Martin Electric also supplied temporary power and lighting to support fabrication and assembly operations, coordinated tightly with steel work, welding, and barge staging schedules. The job required durable, marine-grade materials, creative sequencing, and consistent collaboration with Daidone Electric, Skanska USA (the project’s general contractor and engineer), and other subcontractors on site.
This project was defined by its complexity. Not only were we working in a remote port environment under tight deadlines, but the structures we were outfitting would later be floated downriver—meaning everything had to be robust enough to endure transport and precise enough to align perfectly once delivered to the final installation site.
Challenges and Solutions
One of the primary challenges was the lack of field flexibility. Conduit routing and lighting installations had to be completed in parallel with steel assembly and must be ready prior to float-out. There were no second chances to revise or rework. To address this, Martin Electric adopted a lean, proactive approach to construction. We engaged in detailed pre-planning, including 3D layout coordination and Trimble RTS surveying, to ensure absolute accuracy in our installations.
Prefabrication proved vital to maintaining quality under pressure. When on-site conditions weren’t immediately “construction ready,” Martin Electric prefabricated entire assemblies—including rough-in organized by floor and zone, ladder tray sections, and panel mounting frames—to ensure we stayed productive and ahead of schedule. This also improved safety by reducing time working at height, in tight areas and around heavy equipment.
Results and Impact
Martin Electric completed its full scope on time and without a single safety incident. Our contributions were delivered to the highest quality standards, fully aligned with Daidone’s and Skanska’s milestone dates, and ready for integration into the broader NJ TRANSIT system. The electrical infrastructure we installed plays a pivotal role in ensuring the bridge functions seamlessly—supporting power transmission, system controls, lighting, and long-term inspection access.
The success of this project reflects our core strengths as a commercial and industrial electrical contractor: precision, adaptability, and the ability to perform under pressure. Our work at the Port of Coeymans contributes to a once-in-a-generation infrastructure improvement that will enhance mobility, safety, and economic growth across the entire Northeast Corridor.
