RIPON – The Ripon Chamber of Commerce is hoping to light up the downtown.

Plans call for the purchase, installation and maintenance of the strands of rope lights to drape along 65 lamp poles throughout the historic downtown area.

“We’re hoping that it will attract people to come here and shop and eat,” said Rebecca Naranjo, executive director, at last Tuesday’s Ripon City Council meeting. “We want to promote new businesses to come to downtown.”

The strands will consist of the cost-efficient LED lights.

Council unanimously approved the plan. In turn, the city also agreed to fork out for the use of electricity.

“I’m happy this came forward,” Vice Mayor Garry Krebbs said. “As a citizen of Ripon, I know this will enhance our downtown.”

The Chamber provides services, programs and leadership to promote economic growth while fostering a healthy business environment.

Naranjo hopes to have the work completed by Oct. 20, with the goal of making downtown more welcoming and friendly especially with the lit-up strands of rope lights.