ST. IGNACE, Mich. (AP) – The Mackinac Bridge’s towers are getting a new paint job in the coming years.

The Mackinac Bridge Authority says starting April 6 contractors will begin a nearly two-year project to remove the original lead-based paint from the north tower and repaint it. The new zinc-based paint will be the same color and is expected to last at least 35 years.

Seaway Painting was awarded a $6.3 million contract for the job, which will require some lane closures.

The bridge opened to traffic in 1957. Those involved say it’s the first time one of the towers will be stripped down to bare metal and repainted. Plans call for the south tower on the bridge connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas to be stripped and painted staring in 2019.