The City of Warwick, Rhode Island completed a transformative journey to upgrade its street lighting to LED, aligning with Mayor Joseph J. Solomon’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure. This initiative is a part of the city’s broader strategy to pave streets and install environmentally-friendly LED lights throughout Warwick, marking a significant stride in urban improvement and sustainability.
LEOTEK’s Role in Warwick’s Streetlight Upgrade
Warwick’s transition to LED street lighting, featuring the ComfortView™ LED streetlights from LEOTEK, signifies a major leap in energy efficiency, longevity, and brightness. These lights are integral to Warwick’s smart city infrastructure, offering advanced connectivity and control over the city’s lighting network. The centralized control system enables real-time adjustments based on traffic and weather conditions, further optimizing energy use and enhancing public safety.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The switch to LEOTEK’s ComfortView™ LED streetlights is expected to reduce energy consumption by up to 70%, leading to substantial cost savings and a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with Warwick’s commitment to sustainability, reducing light pollution and minimizing the environmental impact of artificial lighting. The project, valued at $3.1 million, is anticipated to save the city approximately $3.5 million over ten years, effectively paying for itself.
Enhanced Public Safety and Quality of Life
The LED upgrade in Warwick also brings about improved quality of life for its residents. The high-quality LED luminaires ensure better visibility for drivers and pedestrians, contributing to public safety. The lights are designed to minimize light trespass and glare, and the ability to customize light locations and strengths based on community feedback makes the project responsive to residents’ needs.
Project Scope and Community Impact
The project, began in January 2021 and was completed by July of the same year, included lighting and product design selection, installation, and post-conversion maintenance. The initiative has also sparked discussions on public health and safety, with a focus on balancing effective night-time visibility and minimizing discomfort for pedestrians and drivers.
Warwick City Council’s Decisive Actions
The Warwick City Council has played a pivotal role in this transition, approving the LED conversion contract and addressing community concerns about existing lighting. The council’s proactive approach in addressing infrastructure needs, including new stop signs and appointments to the Warwick Housing Authority, demonstrates a comprehensive strategy towards improving city living conditions.
