The Boyd Foundation implements new lighting that adds character and enhances safety downtown.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (September 9, 2026) – The Boyd Foundation, the Main Street District, and the City of Columbia unveiled a new lighting project along Main Street in a joint ceremony on Wednesday evening with remarks from leaders at each organization.
Project Details
Following the popularity of the “Ceiling of Lights” installation on the 1600 block of Main Street, the team at the Main Street District set out to explore additional opportunities that would enhance lighting on more than one block. Working with The Boyd Foundation, they wanted to highlight the very thing that can make the street quite dark at night – the historic tree cover.
“We wanted this project to not only provide some much-needed lighting, but also play into the street’s natural assets, such as the iconic oak trees that can be found at each intersection along Main,” says Matt Kennell, President & CEO of the Main Street District.
Today, you will see five circular lanterns in the trees at every intersection of Main Street, from Gervais to Laurel Streets. Each lantern is covered in grapevine to give it a natural look that adds to the beauty of the oak trees. As a part of phase one of this long-term project, each tree has also been fitted with uplighting to highlight the tree canopy.
The Main Street District’s vision is to be a charming neighborhood where locals, students, and visitors alike want to spend their evenings and weekends.
“We feel these additional lighting features will not only make our district feel more welcoming and create social media buzz but will also make it feel safer,” continues Kennell. “The Boyd Foundation, Mayor Rickenmann, City Council, and City of Columbia staff have been extremely supportive of this project and have offered their guidance and knowledge along the way.”
“The Boyd Foundation is pleased to be underwriting a project to bring more light and even more aesthetics to Main Street. Now that phase one is complete, we anticipate phase two will lean more into lighting of the mid-blocks and sidewalks for a better pedestrian experience,” says George Bailey of The Boyd Foundation.
Work for phase one and phase two of the project has been executed by Carolina Landscape Lighting, with help from the City of Columbia Public Works department, who has lent their lighting expertise and spent many hot summer days installing the new fixtures.
“Main Street is the heart of our downtown, and investments like this help make it an even more welcoming, vibrant, and connected place for residents, businesses, and visitors,” says Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann. “This lighting project adds character to our downtown while enhancing the experience and sense of safety along Main Street. We are grateful to The Boyd Foundation and the Main Street District for their partnership and their continued investment in Columbia. Together, we are helping create a downtown that reflects the energy and pride of our city.”
About the Main Street District
The Main Street District encompasses the 36-block area bounded by Gervais, Elmwood, Assembly, and Marion streets in Columbia, SC. The organization enhances the experience and economic vitality of the Main Street District by implementing exemplary clean and safe practices, supporting the beautification and activation of our public spaces, and championing quality downtown development – while preserving our culture and spirit.
Website: https://mainstcolasc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MainStColaSC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MainStColaSC/
About The Boyd Foundation
The Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Foundation promotes and supports projects of specific interest to the Boyd Family, such as education, beautification, and the creation of outdoor recreational opportunities, as well as enhancements to benefit the quality of life for citizens of Columbia and the Midlands. The Boyd Foundation has made possible a variety of projects in the Midlands, including Boyd Plaza at Columbia Museum of Art, renovations of facilities at Riverbanks Zoo, Boyd Island on the Saluda Riverwalk, South Carolina Waterfowl Association facilities, and many projects and facilities at Historic Columbia.