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One thing is certain: Montreal’s plan to illuminate the Jacques-Cartier Bridge in 2017 is the most expensive bridge-lighting project in the world.

Mayor Denis Coderre and representatives of the former Conservative federal government announced a $39.5-million plan in July to colourfully light the bridge for Montreal’s 375th anniversary.

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The federal government said it will contribute $30 million to the project, a birthday gift to the city and to the nation, which will be celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2017. The remaining $9.5 million will come from the city.

By all accounts, it’s a colossal amount of public money.

However, the project’s proponents, including Gilbert Rozon, commissioner of the Society for the Celebration of Montreal’s 375th Anniversary, say it will pay for itself because the image of the lit bridge will garner international attention, put Montreal at the forefront of bridge lighting, and bring more visitors to Montreal. What’s more, the price includes maintenance over 10 years, he said.