Let there be light ... in Orillia's downtown core.
The Downtown Orillia Business Improvement Area (DOBIA) is investing almost $22,000 into LED lighting for downtown city streets.
As of Nov. 4, 110 of 177 light poles in the downtown area will be festooned with soft LED lights. Two strands per pole will be installed.
The plan is to flip the switch on the new lighting on Nov. 22 to coincide with the popular Children’s Candlelight Parade in downtown Orillia.
The project was initially pitched as a Christmas budget item. However, over the course of multiple meetings, the DOBIA discussed at length pros and cons to improve lighting downtown year-round.
Once proposed as a permanent fixture and once all the options were considered, the board agreed to purchase a total of 6,400 feet of lighting with 20 extra strands for maintenance.
Noted as most needing the improved lighting were Mississaga, Albert, Front, and Peter streets.
Financial concerns were at the forefront of discussions — at monthly meetings and at the annual general meeting earlier this week. It was noted that the purchase was within budget for the permanent lighting and thus, the board gave the move a green light.
Including installation costs, taxes, and the extra strands of lights, the project will cost $21,935.56.
BIA members expressed excitement about investing in this project, noting their goal is to improve the beauty and safety in the area. The LED lighting project is viewed as a way to enhance both.
“Part of the discussion at the board was around how increased illumination in the downtown will not only improve the area aesthetically, but help improve the overall feeling of safety for both staff and customers," said Coun. David Campbell, council's appointee to the BIA.
"The board’s primary job is to create an environment that makes people want to spend time downtown,” Campbell added.
There may be some concern about how the highly regarded Streets Alive project might be impacted by the soon-to-be covered poles.
BIA officials consulted with organizers and city officials to make sure that despite the lighting on the poles, Streets Alive Art will continue to be a part of downtown.
DOBIA board members encourage anyone who notices damaged lights to notify them by email: [email protected]
