MEMS switches with reduced switching voltage and methods of manufacture

A structure comprising:

• at least two fixed electrodes including a first fixed electrode and a second fixed electrode;
• and
• at least three cantilevered electrodes including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode, wherein:
• the first electrode and the second electrode overlap and are structured and operable to contact one another upon an application of a voltage to at least one fixed electrode;
• the third electrode is a stationary electrode and is configured to provide a voltage to move the first electrode toward the second electrode;
• the first fixed electrode is configured to apply the voltage which moves the first electrode towards the second electrode;
• and
• the second fixed electrode is configured to apply another voltage which attracts the second electrodes toward the first electrode.