TAMPA, FL May 6, 2025 — The FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBITCAAA) invites the community to participate in the 5th annual “Paint the Town Blue” initiative from May 11 to May 17, 2025, in recognition of National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day. This weeklong community effort will shine blue lights on buildings and bridges, encourage residents to wear blue, and inspire households to display blue holiday lights as a symbol of support, uniting the public in gratitude to honor the unwavering dedication and service of law enforcement officers across all roles and departments.
FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Tampa Field Office, Matthew Fodor, said, “Painting the Town Blue is more than a tribute, it’s a powerful reminder that behind every badge is a commitment to protect, serve and stand ready. During National Police Week, FBI Tampa and FBI National Tampa Citizens Academy invites you to join us in honoring the courageous men and women, past and present, who have dedicated their lives to keeping our communities safe.”“We are absolutely thrilled to witness the incredible support for ‘Paint the Town Blue’ from communities across the state of Florida. This initiative has grown into a powerful movement, uniting people in a shared expression of gratitude for our dedicated law enforcement officers,” said FBI Tampa Office Community Outreach Specialist Betsy Moriarty. “Over the years, we have been honored to see landmarks across the state—from the State Capitol in Tallahassee to Tampa’s City Hall, Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Lake Eola in Orlando, and countless other locations—illuminated in blue as a symbol of appreciation. The overwhelming participation and enthusiasm from cities, businesses, and residents reflect the deep respect and gratitude we all share for those who work tirelessly to protect and serve our communities. We look forward to continuing this tradition and seeing even more cities shine bright in blue!”
Participation has increased every year. City of Orlando issued a Proclamation in support of Paint the Town Blue 5/1 and Pasco County is issuing a Proclamation in support of Paint the Town Blue 5/6.
Cities that will be lit up blue include:
-New Port Richey
Main Street Bridge will be illuminated in Blue
Some areas of NPR Police Dept will be illuminated
Some areas of NPR City Hall be illuminated
-Skyway Bridge will be illuminated in Blue
-City of Tampa
Cutis Hixon Park Palm Trees & Louver Fountain
City Center at Hanna
Old City Hall
Riverwalk
Sulphur Springs Water TowerHillsborough County Sheriff Chronister and Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco will be publishing a PSA on 5/11/25 in support of Paint the Town Blue.
Main Street Bridge will be illuminated in Blue
Some areas of NPR Police Dept will be illuminated
Some areas of NPR City Hall be illuminated
-Skyway Bridge will be illuminated in Blue
-City of Tampa
Cutis Hixon Park Palm Trees & Louver Fountain
City Center at Hanna
Old City Hall
Riverwalk
Sulphur Springs Water TowerHillsborough County Sheriff Chronister and Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco will be publishing a PSA on 5/11/25 in support of Paint the Town Blue.
-Orlando Public Art
You can honor the law enforcement community and remember those who have lost their lives in the line of duty by supporting the “Paint the Town Blue” initiative in the following ways:
1. Light your business or home in blue and encourage employees or family members to wear blue.
2. Offer special discounts or services to law enforcement personnel.
3. Post on social media using #pttbtampa and tag @fbitcaaa.
FBITCAAA Board President Jacques Hakim said, “Their tireless commitment to protecting our communities deserves our deepest appreciation. Your collaboration is invaluable as we unite to honor the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to ensure our safety. We are grateful for your support in making this year’s event a powerful and meaningful tribute to our law enforcement officers.”