Bend Elks make major lighting upgrades to Vince Genna Stadium, earning Dark Sky certification

(Update: Adding video, assistant manager comments)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Bend Elks recently completed a major upgrade to the stadium lighting at Vince Genna Stadium, sparing neighbors the glare from unshielded lights - and now, the new system has officially earned DarkSky certification.

The recognition from DarkSky International highlights the significant improvements made to reduce light pollution, glare, and light spill into the surrounding neighborhood, while also enhancing visibility and safety on the field for players and fans.

This announcement also comes during International DarkSky Week, and the team will be highlighting the certification Friday.

The upgrade replaced an aging 1970s lighting system with modern LED fixtures and steel poles, dramatically reducing light spilling into nearby homes and improving field performance. Vince Genna Stadium is now Oregon's eighth certified Dark Sky location.

"This project reflects a continued commitment to balancing a great fan experience with neighborhood impact and sustainability," the team said.

While the Elks haven't played under the new lights yet, a few high school games have happened. Taylor McEuin, the team's assistant general manager, says people seem to like them.

"(We've heard) only positive stuff," McEuin told us Friday. "I know the Bend High team, every time (the lights turn on, I hear the 'whoa!' and it's kind of cool. And then they also do a light show, too, which is exciting. So if we get a home run, we can flash the lights."

Read more about the project and recognition at the Bend Elks blog. The Elks season starts May 29th.