The downtown lights look so nice, and the Department of Public Works works so hard to put them up, and January is so cold and dark … can’t we keep downtown shining just a little bit longer?
That was the thinking of Lynn Shaw, of Harbor Bath and Body, and Zak Rivers of Judge Roy Bean’s. They posted petitions in their respective businesses, and it turns out, a lot of residents agree with them.

Critically, members of the Bristol Town Council also agreed, unanimously approving the request through the end of January, excepting the snowflake, which will be taken down on or about Jan. 6, to avoid any additional wear and tear.

Ms. Shaw and Mr. Rivers were motivated by the fact that January is very dark and dreary following the end of the holiday season, with the sun setting well before most people leave work for the day. The inviting lights illuminate the streets, and keep people coming downtown after sunset. “Most towns are leaving their lights on through January,” said Ms. Shaw.

The public response has been overwhelmingly positive, and according to Town Administrator Stephen Contente, the added cost will amount to only about $350 per week for electricity. Other costs, like DPW’s labor, are fixed, regardless of when the lights come down.

The town council’s report noted that the lights would come down sooner if “significant damage or safety concerns precluded this accommodation.” It also indicated that the town would consider expanding the footprint of the holiday lights in future years, stating that “the Council would like to be informed regarding the possible extension of the lighting for several additional blocks and to anticipate a report from the Economic Development Coordinator” on the potential impact of that change.