New downtown lighting to be tested next week

New lighting in downtown Columbia aimed at improving safety is expected to be installed next week, according to city spokesperson Steve Sapp.

Sapp said crews are expected to install the poles for the lighting Sunday, and it will be tested the week of Sept. 17.

ABC 17 News has been reporting on the project since Nov. 17. The city council approved the plan to replace six street lights on Broadway, between Waugh and Hitt streets, in January. The project will include six test lights — two on each pole, and the lights will get brighter when the bars close in an effort to deter crime.

An official with the Downtown Community Improvement District previously told ABC 17 News that an interested parties meeting will be held after the lights are installed, and the city will then move forward with additional lighting if they see the project working.