City workers in Redlands have started the first phase of a project to convert street lights to more efficient, longer-lasting LED (light emitting diode) lighting, a city spokesman announced Wednesday.
The $211,000 first phase is under way with replacement of an estimated 250 high pressure sodium (HPS) street lights in downtown Redlands.
"The $211,000 Phase I conversion project is partially paid for through more than $61,000 in Southern California Edison rebates, including more than $11,000 for LED rebates," Redlands spokesman Carl Baker said. "In addition, the City estimates nearly $20,000 in annual energy savings and $30,000 in one-time salary savings as part of the project."
City staff began work Nov. 12 and have replaced HPS bulbs in more than 200 decorative acorn street lights with new LED lights, Baker said. In addition, close to 50 cobra head street lights downtown have been converted from HPS to LED.
"The remainder of the Phase I conversion is expected to be complete by the end of November," Baker said.
The conversion allows the city keep a commitment made last summer to complete the first phase of the lighting conversion before the Dec. 1 Redlands Christmas Parade, according to Baker.
"Additional areas will be converted as the City realizes savings from the LED conversion and other funding becomes available," Baker said.
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