Lowell kicks off months-long bicentennial celebration; councilors, staff praise turnout

At a city council meeting, a city staff member said the city will stage a months-long bicentennial celebration rather than a single-day event, thanking sponsors, performers and staff for a strong turnout. "This is a really exciting time for the city," the staff member said, adding the rollout will run for about eight months and be "bigger, better" than a one-day approach.

The staff member thanked volunteers and sponsors and highlighted performances during the kickoff, including Mr. DeCotis and Mr. Velasquez. The speaker also noted a cake made by Greater Lowell Regional Technical High School was on display for residents.

"I got the city manager's sentiments and gratitude towards all the sponsorship," Councilor Chau said, praising staff, the police, the Department of Public Works and firefighters for helping make downtown "very very lively" and safe despite winter weather. Councilor Chau said she had not been able to get a piece of the cake because the mayor had eaten it, and called the weekend "amazing."

The remarks were made during the council meeting's opening remarks and public acknowledgments; no formal votes or policy actions were recorded in the provided transcript excerpt. The council expressed anticipation for the official kickoff events planned over the coming months.