Summary:Street lighting is the installation of lighting on streets, railway platforms, and other places where people can safely walk. These fixtures...
Street lighting is the installation of lighting on streets, railway platforms, and other places where people can safely walk. These fixtures are commonly referred to as light poles, lampposts, and standards. Although they are typically located on roads, some may be installed on railway platforms. There are many different types of street lighting, which may be called similar or different depending on their purpose.
The primary purpose of street lighting is to improve visibility at night. However, the right lighting design also takes human traffic into consideration. For example, pedestrian activity can be given higher priority than automobile traffic. This can be done with smaller-scale, more often spaced pedestrian fixtures compared to standard overhead street lights. In addition, secondary functions of light poles should be considered.
For optimal safety and clear visibility, street lighting must ensure good uniformity of light. In urban areas, too wide a light distribution can cause glare. In addition, unwanted backlight and spilllight can trespass neighbouring properties. Good design and modularity can achieve this. And a modular approach can ensure that the street lighting is affordable and flexible.
A street lighting system can be leased from homeowners associations or municipalities. The leased system has a limited selection of street lighting fixtures and is typically operated by the utility. Some utilities also sell maintenance plans. These options can help keep street lighting energy efficient. Street lighting is considered a protective measure by some, while also improving the environment.
A street lighting project may also occur alongside other street improvement projects, such as street widening and fiber-cabling installation. These projects are funded by a special assessment on property owners and/or tax increment financing. Street lighting projects should consider the needs of pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers. Before embarking on a lighting project, make sure to consult the municipality and your utility.
Street lighting in the United States has a long history. The first gas-powered lights were installed in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1792. The first electric street lights appeared in Wabash, Indiana in 1880. These Brush lights, named after their inventor, Thomas Brush, were used by General Electric. One original Brush light is still found on the Wabash County courthouse.
The recommended distance between street lights is 400 to 600 feet. However, this distance should be determined carefully depending on the climate of the area. For example, a city with a large number of pedestrians and a small number of businesses will want to consider a staggered arrangement for the street lighting system. This allows pedestrians to cross the street without having to worry about traffic.
In addition to traffic safety, street lighting provides the added benefit of increasing visibility. It improves the safety and convenience of pedestrians, and can even enhance the look of a street.
