For years, the 16th Street Mall has dimmed bit by bit at night as vehicles have hit the iconic globe street lamps, resulting in their removal.
The mall is set for an injection of LED brightness this year if the City Council approves a proposed $1.9 million contract to replace the aging system with 182 new lights between Broadway and Market Street. The work is planned between May and September.
The council’s Finance and Services Committee on Tuesday morning advanced the proposed the contract with Landscape Forms, Inc. It calls for using similar fixtures that use LED lighting to reduce energy costs.
“These new lights will enhance the experience of our unique mall and create a brighter and more inviting safe space for everyone to enjoy,” Mayor Michael Hancock said in a news release announcing the contract.
Tami Door, president and CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership, said: “As many as 70,000 people walk or ride the shuttle on the Mall on any given day, and we’ve heard loud and clear that improving lighting is one of the most important things we can do to improve upon the feeling of safety Downtown.”
The contract will be covered by the Downtown tax-increment financing fund, which collects some tax money to subsidize redevelopment. It is overseen by the Denver Urban Renewal Authority.
Jon Murray: 303-954-1405, jmurray@denverpost.com or @JonMurray
