When downtown Augusta lights up for the holiday season in December, so too will the Augusta University shields at Augusta University on Broad.

In partnership with the City of Augusta and the Downtown Development Authority, the university’s beacons will illuminate simultaneously with the seasonal lights during Augusta’s Christmas Light Up Spectacular on Dec. 2. The lighting will take place at approximately 6:25 p.m.

Earlier this year, AU Health signed an agreement to lease space in the former Wells Fargo building at 699 Broad Street. The agreement also gave AU Health naming rights of the 17-story building. The building’s name is now Augusta University on Broad.

The shield beacons measure 18 feet wide by 18 feet tall, making them the largest beacons of all those displayed on Augusta University buildings. The beacons signify Augusta University’s investment and long-term commitment to Augusta and downtown.

As major economic contributors to the state and the local community, Augusta University is a natural fit for downtown Augusta. With the Health Sciences campus and Cyber Institute in close proximity, Augusta University will be a vital part in developing downtown Augusta into an attractive, thriving business hub.

“Augusta is a college town, and it comes to life in the community’s pride, excitement and growth. We believe our presence in downtown captures that energy and supports the spirit and enthusiasm for Augusta’s trajectory,” said Executive Vice President for Strategic Communication and Chief Marketing Officer Karla Leeper.

AU Health will occupy two floors and the basement, utilizing about 20,000 square feet of commercial space. Administrative offices that support strategic partnerships with Philips and with Beckman Coulter Inc. and Danaher, as well as the new Center for Rural Health, clinical outreach and physician liaison teams, and the administrative and biomedical functions associated with the management of the Georgia Correctional HealthCare will be located in the space.