As part of an overall program to “Enhance the Riverwalk Experience,” the city’s illumination project utilizes a lighting system to splash colors on the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities coal silo, the Washington Street Bridge piers and abutments, and the Main Street Bridge arches over the Chadakoin River.

The city received $10 million in Downtown Revitalization Initiative funding for a variety of downtown projects. Among them was the illumination project.

At a gathering at Panzarella Park along the Riverwalk, and shortly before the sun set Thursday, Mayor Eddie Sundquist thanked those who helped bring the much-anticipated lighting project to fruition. He noted Stark Tech, Becc Electric, Lightspec, the BPU, city Department of Public Works, city Department of Development, city Parks Department, city council members and Jamestown Renaissance Corp.

“We could not be more thankful for New York state and the work that they have been doing to help us make these improvements,” Sundquist said.

Crystal Surdyk, city director of development, flips the switch on the Riverwalk Illumination Project.

New York announced its Downtown Revitalization Initiative in 2016 to bolster the downtown areas in communities. Since its inception, $600 million has been committed in five funding rounds to “invest in downtowns that are ripe for revitalization,” the state said.

Benjamin Bidell, a revitalization specialist with the New York Department of State, said policies that contributed to urban renewal and suburbanization resulted in “tremendous disinvestment” in downtown communities. He noted that there was a need to invest in urban areas, which the DRI program seek to enhance.

“We didn’t quite know what we were getting into in 2016 when we started this program, but what we did know was that there was a tremendous need for it,” Bidell said at Panzarella Park, later adding, “I just want to say to the city, congratulations on behalf of Gov. Hochul and Secretary of State Robert Rodriguez for allowing us to partner with you on this journey. Jamestown’s future is much brighter, not just because of this project, but because of the host of projects that we’ve been able to undertake here.”

In a news release, Rodriguez said Jamestown will benefit from the Riverwalk Illumination Project for “years to come” while also touting the benefits of the DRI program for small communities.

“This is a great attraction for residents and visitors alike, helping the city connect its downtown to its waterfront,” he said. “Jamestown continues to build upon the Strategic Investment Plan created through the DRI, which is the engine propelling the City’s redevelopment. The plan has identified new opportunities for investment and smart growth into the future.”

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell, who was in attendance Thursday, said, “The city of Jamestown is beautified by the Riverwalk, providing enhanced enjoyment for residents and visitors. Illuminating the Riverwalk will further enhance this area. Thanks to everyone who helped make this possible.”

Following remarks, Crystal Surdyk, city director of development, flipped a prop switch as dusk neared as a signal to have the lights turned on.