3/8/2007
Media Contact:
Justin Ohlemiller, Mayor’s Office, [317] 327-3690
Angie Nussmeyer, DPW, [317] 327-5235 |
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100 new streetlights installed to help keep neighborhoods well-lit, safe
City begins process to expand program, add another 100 lights
INDIANAPOLIS – Mayor Bart Peterson joined Sheriff Frank Anderson, Department of Public Works Director Kumar Menon and community leaders tonight to announce the completed installation of 100 new streetlights in neighborhoods facing challenges with crime. Officials also announced the new streetlight program will continue with work underway to select locations for another 100 lights.
Locations for the 100 newly installed streetlights were based on analysis of historic crime trend data; input from residents, police and community leaders; and placement of existing light poles and infrastructure.
“Criminals look to prey on people in areas where they feel comfortable, and darkness is one factor in that comfort zone,” Mayor Peterson said. “Improving lighting in streets and neighborhoods can send a clear signal that this is a community that cares and is watching out for one another.”
Mayor Peterson’s commitment to add 100 new streetlights in neighborhoods dates back to an emergency Criminal Justice Planning Meeting held during last summer’s surge in crime. Since the Mayor’s call for new lights, DPW has worked with IPL to select locations and install the 100 high-pressure sodium lights, which put out more light and are more efficient and environmentally friendly than earlier lamp models.
Sheriff Anderson said streetlights have a positive impact for both police and neighbors.
“Streetlights can create a safer environment, allowing both police and residents to be more aware of their surroundings,” the Sheriff said. “Our job as law enforcement is to take criminals out of the shadows and bring them to justice, and streetlights can certainly aid those efforts.
This evening’s announcement was held on the city’s Near Eastside within the revitalization district created last summer to help fund ongoing neighborhood infrastructure improvements. Along with adding streetlights, city crews have been at work repaving alleys and creating an overall infrastructure improvement plan for the Near Eastside, which will be announced later this spring.
The 100 new lights cost the city about $5,600 to install and will cost an additional $10,900 annually to pay for power and maintenance costs.
Efforts are under way to select locations for an additional 100 streetlights. The cost of the next 100 could be higher if additional infrastructure is necessary for installation. Again, DPW is seeking input from residents and police in deciding the placement of the next 100 lights. Residents who wish to make a request for a new streetlight can call the Mayor’s Action Center at 327-4MAC (4622).
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