Recession hits Zilker's Trail of Lights

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Rated as one of the top ten holiday light displays in the country, Zilker Park's Trail of Lights is now up for auction.

The Parks and Recreation Department has released an RPF (Request for Proposals) that will allow private companies to take on the responsibility of the Trail of Lights. In the wake of severe budget cuts, this is the City's attempt to keep the annual tradition alive and affordable for the public.

"We need to do this because we are not in the most wonderful economic times," said Jason Maurer with Austin's Park and Recreation Department. "So, really this is a way to explore another option. Is there another resource out there that we can consider that can produce this event on behalf of the city?"

The event draws in about 250,000 people each year and broke a record in 2007, with more than 400,000 people showing up to see the dazzling display. But, with a cost of $800,000 to the City, its now getting scrutiny as Austin looks to cut any fat from the budget.

"The council will ultimately decide on what to do with it," said Maurer. "But, we are still planning the event right now as if everything was normal."

As for what kind of businesses would likely bid on the project, Maurer said there are plenty of options in Austin to choose from.

"Hundreds of events happen here that are produced by private companies, so I think this city is filled with the talent to produce an event like we do," he said.

The RPF states requirements for any entity looking to take over the display:

• Honor and celebrate the annual family friendly tradition of the Trail of Lights.
• Focus on affordability to the public, and sustainability of the event.
• Maintain the event according to the safety, operational and logistic standards required by the City of Austin.
• Target a starting year of 2009 or 2010.

The RFP will close on August 11 and will become an action item for City Council on September 24.