Public safety has always been at the forefront of our priorities in Midtown Houston and this year we’ve made new enhancements to help keep the neighborhood safer. One of our most significant focus areas continues to be on improving lighting, a proven deterrent to crime and a key factor in enhancing community well-being. Locally, enhanced lighting in Houston neighborhoods has been shown to make a tangible difference, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic and community activity. These investments in brighter, well-lit spaces directly contribute to a safer and more inviting Midtown, where everyone can enjoy a greater sense of security.
Lighting Up Bagby Park for Safety
Bagby Parkk one of our most frequented green spaces, is now brighter thanks to new lighting enhancements. This fall, the Midtown Management District installed 40 breathtaking lighted spheres throughout the park. Just in time for the holiday season, the lights add a festive touch to the landscape and they’re a permanent part of our Midtown Public Safety Light Program (PSLP), which has been active in the community since about 2018. Over the years, PSLP initiatives have included replacing path lights at Baldwin Park and wrapping trees in Bagby Park. The park’s electrical systems were upgraded to support these installations, providing more consistent illumination that enhances safety for park visitors, especially after dark. The decision to install lighted spheres was influenced by their community-friendly aesthetic and cost-effective design.
These upgrades are part of our ongoing commitment to public safety. Since 2017, we’ve maintained wrapped tree lights in Bagby Park and improved lighting in Baldwin Park. However, with the new installation of the light spheres, the tree-wrapped lights will be removed and replaced with this new energy-efficient option that is also cost-effective and reliable.
The Dark Blocks Project: Illuminating Midtown’s Streets
In addition to park improvements, we’re also addressing street lighting through the “Dark Blocks Project,” a collaboration with the Midtown Super Neighborhood #62. Together, we identified streets lacking adequate lighting and worked with CenterPoint Energy to develop solutions.
CenterPoint Energy conducted a thorough street lighting assessment, which was presented to our Services and Maintenance and Urban Planning Committees in March 2024. The assessment outlined areas needing additional streetlights and provided options for addressing lighting deficiencies. We also held meetings with CenterPoint Energy and the City of Houston to discuss these plans and review energy cost projections for new installations.
Our efforts have led to the approval of 81 new signature Midtown Coach Lights, which will be installed across the neighborhood to improve visibility and safety. The Midtown Redevelopment Authority (MRA) will cover the $287,000 installation cost, and the Midtown Management District will manage the ongoing electricity expenses.
A Community-Wide Commitment
Our dedication to public safety and community well-being is evident in our budget priorities and ongoing initiatives. From strategic lighting in parks to comprehensive streetlight projects, the Midtown Management District is focused on creating brighter neighborhoods. We couldn’t achieve these goals without the collaboration of our partners, including the Midtown Super Neighborhood, CenterPoint Energy, and the City of Houston. Together, we’re making a difference.
We invite you to stay connected and support our efforts as we continue enhancing public safety and ensuring Midtown is a vibrant, secure community for all.