In Franklin County’s ongoing quest to go ‘green,’ the Board of Commissioners passed a resolution approving a contract for all traffic signals under the jurisdiction of the Franklin County Engineer to use high-efficiency LED lights.
Sixty-percent of the traffic signals already use LED lights. This project would replace the remaining signals that still use incandescent bulbs. All newly-built signals use LED lights.
Commission President Marilyn Brown said, “This is another step the county is taking to be more environmentally responsible. We will continue to seek out ways to reduce energy consumption.”
The installation of the LED lights will save money as they use half of the energy of the incandescent bulbs.
“These efforts will reduce costs in the long run,” said Commissioner Mary Jo Kilroy. “This meets our mutually beneficial goals of being environmentally prudent, and fiscally responsible.”
The contract will cover the maintenance of 65 signals, 55 school flashers and 11 other types of flashers.
“It is vital that traffic signals around our schools are functioning optimally,” said Commissioner Paula Brooks. “This project is great on many fronts…financially, environmentally, and public safety.”
In addition to the cost/energy savings, LEDs don’t burn out like incandescent bulbs so this reduces "emergency" call-outs—such as a red light going out.
Franklin County Engineer Dean Ringle said, “We are pleased to implement this program to improve our transportation network, and at the same time having all our traffic signals more energy efficient.”
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