NIU has become a brighter place with the addition of $41,000 in outdoor lighting improvements.

NIU Project Manager Conrad Miller said work has been completed on 15 of the areas on campus that were targeted for lighting improvements last year.

One of the areas in which changes have been noticed is the yard between Adams and Williston Halls. Barbara Henley, acting vice president for Student Affairs said she noticed “significant lighting changes” between the two halls, adding that the area seemed “much brighter.”

Other areas receiving additional lighting include the yard between McMurray and Altgeld Halls, the walk south of Neptune Hall adjacent to Watson Creek, and the walk between the track and baseball field near Huskie Stadium.

Additional lights were added to the areas around the Stevens Building and south of Campbell Hall.

Some of the changes were initiated last year after a group of about 10 people, including President John La Tourette, pointed out poorly lit areas during a walking tour of the campus.

About $23,000 of the lighting renovations were completed by Physical Plant employees, while the $18,600 balance was paid to outside contractors. Funding for the improvements was provided by NIU’s general improvements budget.

Other areas have been slated for improvements but are awaiting funding and bids from contractors.

One area which is recognized as needing lighting improvements is the the “south loop” near the East Lagoon. In addition to providing inadaquate illumination, the lighting system near the lagoon presents some unique problems because of its age and design.

The lagoon lighting system is of a “series” type, similar to a string of Cristmas tree lights, Miller said. “When one goes out, they all go out.” Additionally, the system is so old that obtaining replacement parts is difficult.

Miller said plans have been made to replace the entire lighting system near the East Lagoon but funding for the $60,000 project is unavailable.

The Wirtz Quadrangle also is slated for lighting improvements.