LANSING, MI – The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is pleased to announce that the highly anticipated Under the Bridge Project will launch into full swing this spring. In conjunction with the project, Lansing-based artist, Brian Whitfield, was commissioned to create four murals on the slopepavings underneath the US-127 bridge overpass along the Michigan Avenue corridor that joins Lansing and East Lansing. In addition, the Lansing Board of Water & Light will install 24 decorative LED lights that will illuminate the bridge.

“I am honored to have been commissioned for a truly transformative project in my own back-yard,” said Brian Whitfield, Lansing-resident and artist. “The mild-winter has caused uncertainty with the temperatures necessary for creating a mural, and I am eager to begin my work as soon as the weather is consistent.”

Whitfield’s murals will draw connections between Lansing and East Lansing, celebrating the rich history, prosperous future, and strength of the regional community through his artistic illustrations. At this time, the Lansing Board of Water & Light has begun work on new light fixtures underneath the bridge and will begin the installation of decorative lights that will illuminate the bridge in dozens of optional color variations mid-May.

“The BWL is committed to our community, and this project will make the underpass a more desirable corridor, especially for those walking,” said Dick Peffley, General Manager of the Lansing Board of Water and Light. “Under the Bridge is a great project that allows us to put our values into action to engage with our community and contribute to the future prosperity of the region.”

“Under the Bridge is a fantastic example of successful placemaking. Through a well-executed, artistic, and functional installation, this project will be instrumental in uniting the Michigan Avenue corridor and showcasing the global vibe of the region,” said Bob Trezise, President and CEO of LEAP. “There is so much economic development activity occurring along this stretch of the corridor, and this highly visible addition will truly bridge two of our greatest regional assets, the State Capital and Michigan State in East Lansing.”

LEAP wishes to thank the many donors and partners who have made this project possible, including: Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Lansing Board of Water & Light, Arts Council of Greater Lansing, RISE Development LLC, Sparrow Foundation, Michigan State University, Indian Trails, Feldman Automotive, LAFCU, Lansing Charter Township, City of Lansing, AF Group, Harvest Creative Services, and the Gillespie Company.

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The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is a coalition of area leaders committed to building a prosperous and vibrant region where business can thrive. To do this, we help entrepreneurs start new businesses, help existing businesses grow, and attract new businesses to the region. For more information about LEAP, please visit www.purelansing.com 

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