Hunter Harper
Contributing Writer
Music has a way of creating a cheerful environment. Some may already have music playing in their heads. But with the developing idea of a new speaker system being installed in downtown Naperville, everyone will have the chance to experience the joy.
“I feel the city of Naperville wants us to have an experience when we visit the downtown area,” said sophomore Ana Krkić. “The speaker system will add to the liveliness and joyful atmosphere of downtown Naperville.”
According to the Naperville City Council, plans for a new speaker installation are set for next year, but the projected cost for the installation has recently decreased. Because of the recent change in the cost, city officials believe that the speaker system could be up and running in the next few months.
“I think this new speaker system they are planning to install in downtown Naperville will create a friendly environment for locals and new visitors,” said Naperville resident Sharon Mills. “I love how all the trees along the streets are decorated with lights and the soft sound of music in the background will only add to the joyful environment around the holidays.”
The city officials are also confident that, with this new system, all the music will be able to be controlled from one central location and the music will remain consistent.
One of the main controversies that has risen from this idea is whether or not the music will interfere with the local residents of Naperville. Local businesses could be fighting the idea because they already have music playing outside of their buildings to entice more customers.
“I believe that the speaker system is an inventive idea because a little cheerful music throughout the town would be nice,” said junior Kylie Wolf. “As long as the music isn’t blaring, I think the local residents won’t be disturbed by the playing of the music. A little music is always nice, in my opinion.”
The speaker system would only be activated for special occasions, such as holidays and parades.
“I think installing a speaker system in downtown Naperville is a good idea because I like hearing holiday music around the holidays in malls and stuff, so why not downtown Naperville?” said graduate Aaron Langer. “Plus it would make the ambient atmosphere nicer.”
Originally, the new sound system was projected to cost $150,000, but according to a study done by an engineering firm hired by the Downtown Naperville Alliance, the sound system could be installed at a fraction of the cost for more than $66,000.
The targeted area for the speaker system will be bounded between Benton Avenue, Webster Street, Water Street and Washington Street. It will not compromise the atmosphere of the Riverwalk. The heart of the town will be amplified with music.
This plan has been in discussion for the past five years now and the City Council believes they can finally make it happen.
