On September 16, 2020, the Mayor and City Commission referred to the Neighborhood and Quality of Life Committee (NQLC) to discuss the options and viability of permanent decorative lighting along portions of the 71st Street Business Corridor. 

Consistent with the City’s long-term vision and the City of Kindness initiative, permanent installation of rope lighting on palms has been installed throughout portions of prominent business corridors such as the 41st street corridor and Washington avenue. The residents and business along the 71st street business corridor have requested these enhancements to create a safer, more vibrant commercial/retail oriented pedestrian promenade during evening hours.

The Property Management Department held several meetings with the stakeholders and the City’s contractor to compose a comprehensive proposal inclusive of monthly maintenance.  

The lighting plan encompasses the area West of Bay Drive East to Rue Notre Dame and South of Normandy Drive to 71st Street (Exhibit A). A total of 73 palms will be permanently wrapped with rope lighting for an installation cost of $45,407.25 and a monthly maintenance fee of $1,940.00 with a total annual cost for year one of $68,687.25 (Exhibit B). The Property Management Department will coordinate installation once a direction is given with the City vendor and work with the Public Works Department on daily maintenance as needed in collaboration with the City vendor.