Crowdfunding campaign aims to ‘light up’ downtown Lansing

Downtown Lansing Inc. seeks $30K in donations for light displays

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WEDNESDAY, Dec. 9 — An online crowdfunding campaign announced today aims to illuminate downtown Lansing all year long with “bright bursts of color” and other seasonal light projections.

Downtown Lansing Inc. announced today the “Light Up the Night” crowdfunding campaign, an effort to secure matching grant funds from the Michigan Economic Development Corp. for thousands of dollars in light displays — mostly on Washington Square and surrounding streets. 

“This is more than just enhanced lighting to street lights or holiday lights. We’re talking year-round enhancements that will light up buildings all along Washington Square,” said Downtown Lansing Inc. Executive Director Cathleen Edgerly. “Especially during this time of year, it already feels a little dark, a little isolating. Enhanced lighting can really help out.”

Edgerly said the fundraising campaign is only the start of long-term plans to enhance downtown lighting in Lansing and create a "huge impact on the look and feel” of the street, according to a press release. 

If the campaign reaches its $30,000 fundraising goal by Jan. 8, it will win a matching grant with funds from MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places program and add “bright bursts of color,” seasonal light projections and uplit trees all year long, geared toward making a safer and more welcoming downtown, Edgerly explained.

The first portion of the project would include two colorful LED attachments on three light poles along the 100-300 blocks of N. Washington Square, including parts of Michigan Avenue leading to the State Capitol building.

Seasonal projections would also include snowflakes, hearts and other artwork .

LED lights would also be installed in plant beds, pointing up toward trees along each block. 

Click here for more information about the campaign or to make an online donation. 

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