The Community Redevelopment Agency approved funding up to $150,000 to light the Calhoun Street pedestrian bridge, a connector between a public parking garage and nearby downtown businesses. KCCI (a volunteer‑led civic nonprofit) presented the proposal and said the project is intended to increase nighttime visibility and pedestrian safety while also creating a programmable civic gateway that can display white light for everyday safety and color sequences for events.

What was approved: The CRA approved a turnkey funding commitment not to exceed $150,000, to be given to the city for management and implementation. The proposal covers design, fixtures, electrical connections to the city parking garage, programming integration with the city hall lighting system and construction.

Why it matters: Presenters said the bridge is a principal pedestrian link near the courthouse, parking and Cascades Park and that the bridge is currently dark at night. KCCI’s Betsy Couch noted the proposed lights would be LED, shielded to avoid driver glare, and integrated with the city’s programming system so the city can change colors remotely.

Board discussion and support: Board members praised the design team and KCCI’s volunteer effort. The mayor and multiple board members said the project improves pedestrian safety and helps frame downtown as a civic gateway. Board members asked staff to coordinate maintenance and adjacent cleaning/wayfinding improvements so the bridge lighting complements other downtown enhancements.

Ending: CRA staff will transfer the approved funds to the city to manage procurement and installation; the city and KCCI will coordinate timing, design details and maintenance responsibilities.