More than 50 years ago, colorful illuminated candy canes and bells decorated many of the utility poles Downtown during the holiday season.
After utilities went underground, so did the decorations, but Downtown Vision Inc. has revived the tinsel-trimming tradition with the decoration of 70 streetlamp poles along the main retail and entertainment corridors.
The city last year fabricated and installed banners with snowflakes and the message “Happy Holidays.”
This year, DVI purchased green garlands and red bows for the lamp poles.
“We wanted the decorations to be ready for Art Walk,” said Katherine Hardwick, vice president of marketing.
The decorated lamp posts are along Laura Street from Hemming Park to the Jacksonville Landing and along East Bay Street in The Elbow entertainment district.
Hardwick said DVI invested about $250 for the decorations on each pole, but they are weatherproof and will stand up to years of use.
After Jan. 1, the garlands and bows will be removed and packed away until next year.
DVI has a few extra sets available if a business would like to decorate a lamp post with the official décor package and invest in the neighborhood’s new holiday tradition, she said.
The decorations complement those at the Landing and the tree that’s along the City Hall side of Hemming Park.
“Everyone can do a little. Together, we can create a nice product Downtown,” said Hardwick.
(904) 356-2466