Businesses involved in 'Thin Blue Line'

A new nighttime element to Tampa's skyline represents a show of support to law enforcement by local businesses.

The Tampa Police Department formally switched on its new “Thin Blue Line” tribute to fallen officers March 24. The 400-foot blue light beam can be clearly seen over Lykes Gaslight Square Park from the base of TPD headquarters at 411 N. Franklin St. to the top of the 36-story Park Tower office building at 400 N. Tampa St.

LumaStream of St. Petersburg provided new LED lighting at the base of the memorial, while One Stop Laser Shop in Clearwater donated the laser. Tampa philanthropists John and Susan Sykes led private funding for the memorial.

The light, which shines from sunset until midnight each day, realizes the long-time symbolism of the line separating the lawful and lawlessness. Tampa police has lost 31 officers in the line of duty dating back to 1895, including three killed during the last two years.