Community Corner

GWB Turning Blue to Honor World Autism Day

George Washington Bridge and JFK Airport Control Tower to be lit blue during the month of April to support autism awareness.

The lights on the George Washington Bridge will be lit blue as the Port Authority joins Autism Speaks in their "Light it Up Blue" campaign.

“The Port Authority is proud to show its strong support for a disorder that touches the lives of dozens of our own employees and millions of Americans,” said Port Authority Executive Director Pat Foye. 

The United Nations has designated April 2 as Autism Awareness Day to support the efforts of those affected by autism as well as those working to find a cure and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is supporting those efforts for the fourth straight year.

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“I’m pleased that the Port Authority is taking part in this global effort to shine a light on organizations supporting the effort to find a cure and groups who assist families dealing with the effects of autism every day,” said Port Authority Commissioner Jeffrey Lynford, the father of an autistic child. “Thousands of parents face the daily difficulties and challenges of caring for an autistic child.”

Last year, more than 3,000 buildings and landmarks in over 50 countries were lit blue to help raise awareness about autism. This year, the Port Authority will light both the JFK Tower and the George Washington Bridge blue in a show of support for the entire month of April.

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“Lighting our airport tower and the world’s busiest bridge blue is one small, visible way we can show our support for this very important cause,” Foye said.   

The George Washington Bridge is the world’s busiest vehicular crossing, with 49.1 million eastbound crossings each year.

“There are countless people working hard every day to raise awareness, provide critical family services and ultimately find a cure for this devastating disorder,” said Port Authority Deputy Executive Director Bill Baroni. “The Port Authority is committed to doing our part to honor them by lighting the world’s busiest bridge blue for the month of April.”

 

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