Light it up, Houston. The multi-colored lights are coming back to the Montrose bridges after the city has agreed to invest $2.6 million into its illumination in a 15-1 vote.
The lights of the Montrose bridges were initially installed in 2017 ahead of the Super Bowl LI. Over the past few months, however, the lights have been in and out.
After an influx of requests to repair the bridge lights, the city held a vote on whether or not to do so. This past Wednesday city officials held a vote, ultimately coming to 15-1 in favor, of repairing the lights on the Southwest Freeway.
“Since I have been here eight years, you can’t imagine the requests that have come in with people wanting those lights lit up,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said.
“We’re talking about adding to the beautification of the city and to that whole area. Over the years, I’ve heard from so many people [say] how attractive the city looked with those lights, changing colors. It’s very, very popular, but hard to maintain it. This will really enhance our city, and I hope you view it favorably.”
The total cost of the lights totals $4 million. To cover the full payment, the city will put in $2.6 million, while Houston First will cover the remaining $1.4 million.
“These bridges literally unite the neighborhoods, and when I go speak at neighborhood meetings, this is one of the top things they bring up,” District C Councilmember Abbie Kamin told Chron.
“But the lights just aren’t about beautification; what’s also going to be included in this is pedestrian and street lighting. Some of the people do not feel safe walking across right now. ”