12/25/2024
For Immediate Release
December 25, 2024
A Brighter Future for Monroe: Illuminating Communities for Safety and Growth
As a proud member of the Monroe City Council, I, Councilmember Franco McGee, am thrilled to acknowledge the City of Monroe’s ambitious initiative to replace aging streetlights with energy-efficient LED lighting. This effort, spearheaded through the Wi******er Revitalization Committee and built upon the foundational work of the Public Enterprise Committee, represents a critical step in our ongoing commitment to enhancing safety, beautifying our neighborhoods, and fostering a vibrant, thriving community.
This project isn't just about brighter streets—it's about building safer, more connected neighborhoods. Research has consistently shown that well-lit communities experience lower crime rates. A study from the University of Chicago Crime Lab, for example, found that improved street lighting led to a 36% reduction in violent crime in impacted areas. By increasing visibility, we’re not only deterring unlawful activity but also creating spaces where families feel secure, children can play freely, and businesses can flourish.
The Wi******er neighborhood is leading the way, with 173 high-pressure sodium (HPS) lights being replaced with modern LEDs. This initiative is part of the Wi******er Revitalization Project, which prioritizes sustainable, long-term quality of life improvements. Beyond aesthetics, LED lighting offers numerous benefits:
Safety: LED lights provide better visibility, reducing hazards for pedestrians and drivers.
Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume significantly less energy, making them environmentally and financially sustainable.
Cost-Effectiveness: With a longer lifespan and lower maintenance needs, LEDs are a sound investment for the future.
This upgrade is not the end—it's a bold beginning. We envision these efforts as the first in a series of community-centered initiatives aimed at tackling systemic issues like gun violence and other violent crimes. Illuminating our streets is a symbolic and practical step toward reclaiming our public spaces for peace, safety, and unity.
We are incredibly proud to see this project take center stage and extend heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders—City staff, the Energy Services Department, and residents—for their dedication to Monroe’s growth. Let’s continue to shine a light on the path toward a brighter future together.
For updates and to report streetlight outages, please visit our interactive map at monroenc.org.
Together, we illuminate. Together, we thrive.
-Councilmember Franco McGee
City of Monroe
www.monroenc.org
