Over 75K D.C. streetlights could be changed to incorporate LED technology

Tens of thousands of D.C. streetlights are expected to be converted to energy-efficient LED bulbs via a citywide project launched in 2017. A contractor for the project, which would be backed by private financing, could be chosen by the end of 2019. Design and construction work would happen over an approximately two-year period and maintenance over 15 years.

In a recent release, the city’s transportation department says: “Specifically, the District is proposing to convert its street light network of more than 75,000 assets to light emitting diode (LED) technology with remote monitoring and control capabilities.” It adds that light poles will be repaired so any chipped paint or structural deficiencies receive improvements. Two public meetings about the project are set for this week: one on November 5 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Georgetown Neighborhood Library, and the other on November 6 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Roosevelt High School. (WAMU reported on the technology last year.)

The city established a streelight advisory panel of community members for the project. This project is required to undergo federal review via the 1969 National Environmental Policy Act.