Congress Avenue will sparkle at night

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Twinkling lights are usually seen during the Christmas holidays, but one street in Austin is hoping to bring that fun spirit year-round.

Beginning in November, the Downtown Austin Alliance will light the 136 trees on Congress Avenue from Cesar Chavez Street to 11th Street.

Unlike previous lighting projects on the Avenue, the Congress Avenue lights will remain lit 365 days a year.

Crews started installing the equipment in August and will run until November.

The DAA has worked for nearly two years with a team of volunteers in collaboration with the city of Austin to conceptualize and bring to life a vision for a "Starry Texas Night."

"This project will bring a new vitality to the Avenue and create a vibrant pedestrian experience unlike anything Austin has ever seen," Pamela Power, DAA board chairwoman, said. "The Congress Avenue Lights will help transform one of Texas' most beloved streets into our Champs-Elysees or Michigan Avenue. It will certainly be a sight for all to see."

An official kick-off celebration for the project will be held Dec. 1 at the annual Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll.