I am so glad to see this initiative move forward. We earmarked more than $200,000 in funds in our 2016 capital borrowing for this, but the project languished.
I’m excited to see Mayor Shelenske lead the charge in making this a reality. He has been a leader in pushing for this important change for many years.
From the press release …
South Milwaukee is committing to a more cost effective and energyefficient future by partnering with We Energies to replace 1,075 streetlights with LED bulbs. At their meeting on November 7, 2023, the South Milwaukee Common Council unanimously approved the project.
The conversion project, set to begin in 2024, is an important investment in the City’s infrastructure and sustainability objectives. LED technology is renowned for its efficiency, longevity, and eco-friendliness. By switching to LED streetlights, South Milwaukee will significantly reduce its carbon footprint. The new bulbs are expected to consume between 50% and 70% less energy compared to traditional streetlights, translating into substantial energy savings for the City
Within a seven-year period, the City is forecasted to save $260,000 in streetlighting costs. This number jumps to $1,800,000 within 20 years.
Mayor Shelenske, a long supporter of the project, expressed enthusiasm, saying, “The streetlight conversion project is a practical, cost-effective, and forward-thinking investment for South Milwaukee. In addition to other benefits, it boosts our attractiveness to environmentally conscious businesses looking for a new home.”
South Milwaukee Blog 