NATCHEZ — Since the official lighting of the Mississippi River bridge last week, motorists have crossed the symbolic link between Natchez and Vidalia in darkness.

Mississippi Department of Transportation District Engineer Darrell Broome said Tuesday the bridge lights should be in full working order by week’s end.

“We’re having to do tweaks on electronics right now,” Broome said.

MDOT is also working with the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure the illuminated bridge will not hinder water navigation. Broome said there are no present concerns about water navigation.

Miss-Lou residents gathered at the Vidalia Riverfront Friday to witness the bridge lighting, made possible by 400,000 feet of wire and 406 new light fixtures.

Broome said the bridge lights were manually operated Friday, and the lights stayed on all night long. By week’s end, Broome expects the bridge lights will be electronically operated, coming on at dusk and turning off at approximately 1 a.m. each day.