The streets around Bulldog Stadium might look a little different — or at least brighter and smoother — the next time you head over for a football game.

Fresno State partnered with the City of Fresno this summer to install more than a dozen new streetlights and to resurface two streets next to the stadium. Construction finished in mid-July, a month before students return to campus and less than two months before the Bulldog’s home opener. The 'Dogs play Idaho on Sept. 1.

"We are so appreciative of the partnership with the City of Fresno and in particular the advocacy and support from Councilmember Paul Caprioglio and Associated Students, Inc. to help make this project happen,” said Tinnah Medina, associate vice president for Facilities Management.

Many students walk in the area traveling to and from campus from nearby apartments or fraternity and sorority houses. Community members also frequent the area for stadium events.

The streetlights, with LED technology, were installed on Bulldog Lane, along the front entrance of the stadium, and on Millbrook Avenue. Fresno State contributed $125,000 to the project. Another $50,000 in Measure “C” funds, the half-cent transportation sales tax, helped pay for the project.

"The increased lighting levels along Bulldog Lane along with other physical improvements (removal of landscaping) and increased patrols by City of Fresno Police and Fresno State Police have helped to mitigate some of the safety concerns expressed by our students who live near the El Dorado neighborhood area," said Debbie Adishian-Astone, vice president for Administration and chief financial officer.   

In addition, Bulldog Lane and Millbrook were resurfaced using a slurry seal treatment to prolong the life of roadways. Traffic lanes, parking lanes and a bicycle lane were painted by the city.

Parking will be allowed on the east side of Millbrook on non-game days, a request made by Fresno State. The $40,750 resurfacing project is part of the city’s preventative maintenance program. Fresno has invested $1.6 million annually on maintaining neighborhood streets thanks to improved gas tax revenue.