LED street lights offer many economic advantages compared to the HPS street lights. LED street lights are sustainable and cost-efficient because they last longer and consume less energy than their conventional equivalent. LED street lights are 40 to 60% more energy efficient than traditional lighting technologies. Another benefit of LED street lights is a longer lifespan. By providing a longer lifespan, maintenance and upkeep costs are reduced. Within approximately 4 years from switching street lights in these locations from HPS to LED street lights, it is estimated that the costs required to convert the fixtures would be re-cooped from an operational cost standpoint. By further reducing operating costs incurred, these cost savings could be reapplied to other essential services provided by the Town and provide a greater level of customer service to the residents and businesses of Grand Chute. Upgraded street lighting would provide safer pedestrian and bicyclist facilities. Replacing and upgrading HPS street lights to LED street lights also provides a safety benefit to the surrounding area. Studies have shown that in larger communities, replacing light fixtures to LED street lighting has lowered crime rates. With less dark, un-illuminated pockets, pedestrians feel and are safer walking home late at night in comparison to when walking under traditional street lighting. LED street lights also provide greater visibility to vehicular traffic during inclement weather conditions, which improves the driver’s ability to see obstructions or conflict points sooner, compared to the traditional street lighting fixtures.
