The Story of a Bridge

2026

Celebrating Ten Years!

The Third Street Bridge stood for nearly 100 years before tragically collapsing fifty years ago in 1976. The bridge once seamlessly connected Bay City's East and West sides.

Ten years ago, 2016, the Third Street Star Bridge symbolically restored that connection. Crisscrossing strings of overhead bulbs create a magical canopy of light that illuminates the block every night. Combined with two striking murals—Greek God as Astronaut by Paolo Pedini and A Talk with Nature by Trevor Edmonds—this enchanting block has become the most photographed location in Bay County and a major destination for visitors exploring Pure Michigan.

Each year thousands share the experience under the lights, enjoying music, gathering with friends old and new. The illumination brings the street to life through art, sparking creativity and connection.

. Your contribution helps maintain the magic!

The Story of the Stars

The Third Street Star Bridge is an outdoor visual experience to spark your imagination and celebrate life. This downtown Bay City magical community-driven landmark was created to honor loved ones. Initiated by Golden Gallery owner Avram Golden in memory of his brother Ari, the magical canopy of lights remains a beloved backdrop for local photography and community gatherings.

The Star Bridge began as a way to embody the light of special people in our lives. To fund the initial project, community members donated $100 per light bulb to recognize a living or passed loved one. A dedicated memorial plaque, designed to honor these individuals and their contributors, lines the street.

The installation would not have been possible without the collaboration and contributions of local Bay City entities:

The City of Bay City and various local building owners, who provided the necessary infrastructure to zigzag the lights over the street.
Clements Electric, which choreographed the twinkling light patterns and completed the installation.
Peter Hardy of Bay City Yoga, who built and donated four wooden benches and helped name the project.
Kawkawlin Stone, which donated the stone for the community sign.
Adam Wernecke, for designing and laying out the tribute plaques.
Die Stampco, for precision engraving on all the nameplates.

Celebrating Ten Years

a program of

The Jefferson Project

Help maintain the magic!

Donate: Funds beyond annual needs, go directly toward funding new, vibrant art projects throughout the community.

Merchandise: Support the bridge by purchasing apparel and souvenirs at Golden Gallery. and other Downtown Bay City shops.

Supported by

Star Bridge District Art & Artists