The new portable screen will be 17 feet wide by 10 feet tall. Photo courtesy of Insane Impact via the city of Des Moines
Des Moines is purchasing a $151,000 LED big screen and trailer for its Free Flicks program.
State of play: The Friday night summer movie series has used an inflatable screen in recent years.
- But the equipment is getting old and is expensive to repair, according to information provided to the city council last month.
- At least four staffers are needed to set up and manage the current equipment, which has led to late start times and attendees leaving early.
What's happening: The new equipment has technology that allows the screen to be visible during daylight, which will allow movies to start before dusk.
- Its daytime flexibility means it can also be used in next year's free summer day camp programs.
Of note: A grant from Prairie Meadows is paying $52,500 and private donations are covering another $17,000 of the cost.
- Mayor Frank Cownie and 25 DSM neighborhood association leaders signed a letter of support earlier this year for the screen.
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