NORTHAMPTON — The city is seeking community input on a new model of LED streetlight following an earlier public comment period on other models.
The city this summer plans on replacing all of its streetlights with new LED lights that will save an estimated $170,000 annually in electricity costs.
Now, the city is seeking feedback on a different model of lamp that has recently been made available intended for use in residential areas. That model, manufactured by Cree Lighting, has been installed on Williams Street for public viewing alongside one of the earlier sampled models.
The Cree lamp would further reduce energy use and could provide a nuanced difference in appearance from the lamps that were put on display earlier that may lead some people to see it as having a lower level of glare, according to the release.
But switching to this lamp would increase the project cost without providing more operational savings based on the rate tariff charged by National Grid. Though there is a potential future change of the utility’s rate structure, according to the release.
A map of the sample lamp locations and an online feedback form can be accessed at ma-northampton.civicplus.com/1706/LED-Streetlights.
In May, officials sought public opinion on sample lights that were installed in the area around Pleasant Street.
As a result of that input, officials decided to implement several changes to the planned upgrade, including reducing perceived light levels for several residential neighborhoods that have historically had slightly brighter street lights; further reducing perceived light levels for downtown urban areas and most of the city’s main roads and significantly reducing perceived light levels and glare ratings for lights installed at intersections and some crosswalks, according to a release sent by Mayor David J. Narkewicz.
Additionally, officials will ensure that the lights installed will be as warm-colored as possible based on the models that are eligible for an anticipated $190,000 rebate from National Grid.
And the city’s contractor will install shields on specific fixtures deemed to be a nuisance, according to the statement.
For more information on the project, contact Northampton Energy and Sustainability Officer Chris Mason at 587-1055 or cmason@northamptonma.gov.