The next time you're in downtown Syracuse, you may notice it's a bit brighter. After a few years in the works, Onondaga County Executive Joanie Mahoney has finally turned on the bulbs in her downtown lighting project. It's meant to highlight the city's architecture and boost foot traffic.
Linda Napier thinks it's a bright idea. "They're beautiful, I think they are a nice addition to downtown," she said.
"The facades of the buildings are lit up, as well as Columbus Circle and our Everson Plaza are all lit up at night," said Brian Lynch, Commissioner of the County's Facility's Management. "I think it's an economic development opportunity for everybody visiting the civic center as well as the downtown complex," he said.
The $540,000 project came in under its $658,000 budget. No taxpayer dollars were used to fund the lights. It was mostly paid for with the room occupancy tax, which people pay when renting a hotel room in the county. Money was also pulled from a tobacco settlement.
"I like it, I like it a lot. It's a nice city and it's nice to see it all lit up," said Nancy Thompson.
The project also keeps downtown well lit, and safer for walkers.
"I used to work downtown and it was a scary place to be, and the lights seem to brighten everything up, as well as all the development that's going on down here," said Chris Lusnar.
"Security hasn't been a large issue in this area but it's definitely a deterrent to have a well lit area, and make people feel safe and secure," said Lynch.
