Montpelier: City of Bridges
One year ago, Montpelier Alive launched a fundraising and grant writing effort to illuminate seven bridges in Montpelier’s historic downtown. That vision is now a reality: bridges across the city, from Bailey Avenue to Granite Street and from the Rialto to School Street, are aglow.
Montpelier has been transformed into a “City of Bridges.” These underappreciated, utilitarian structures have become the jewels of the evening streetscape, bringing warmth and light into the dark winter months, increasing pedestrian safety, and drawing both visitors and residents into downtown.
In the months ahead, Montpelier Alive will embark on an ambitious marketing campaign to attract out of state visitors to experience this spectacle. Katie Trautz, Executive Director of Montpelier Alive, emphasizes the importance of this effort, stating “Now, more than ever, we need to attract patrons to support downtown businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues.” With support from a Department of Tourism grant, Montpelier will be celebrated near and far as a “City of Bridges”, a place where connections are made between the arts and infrastructure, nature and the built environment, neighborhoods and downtown. It is an aspirational identity that reflects the community spirit, engagement, and resilience that define Vermont’s capital city.
The new logo reflects the historic importance of truss bridges to the city, the dynamic lighting effects of the illuminated bridges, the small-town charm of Montpelier, and the colors and inclusive spirit of Montpelier Alive. It will be featured in ads and story placements in regional newspapers and magazines.
Montpelier Alive is deeply appreciative of the support it has received from residents, City officials and staff, and local, state, and federal agencies that have helped bring this project to life. Now, the organization hopes to utilize this new resource as a way of not only enhancing the lives of the residents of Montpelier, but also attracting new visitors to experience all that this special city has to offer.
-Written by Vivian Ladd Tomasi