MEEGAN Fitzharris says work has commenced to upgrade streetlights in Braddon, Griffith and Kingston.

“The upgrades include the installation of new LED streetlights and underground cables at some sites, while in other areas the existing streetlights will be upgraded and converted to LED lights,” Meegan said.

“Approximately 75 streetlights will be installed or upgraded in these suburbs.”

“Conventional main road street lights are orange in colour while LEDs produce a white light. This white light makes the street appear brighter, which improves safety in these suburbs.

“There are both environmental and economic benefits to installing LEDs. The LED lights use less electricity, which reduces the cost of running and their environmental footprint. LEDs also should not require maintenance for 10 years, rather than the three years expected for the existing metal halide streetlights, thereby further reducing costs.

“This $400,000 project follows on from similar works in previous years, including the works on Northbourne Avenue and Antill Street near Dickson to upgrade approximately 70 streetlights to LEDs. Similar upgrade projects were also undertaken in Palmerston, Red Hill and Kaleen last year to improve safety for motorists, pedestrians and other road users,” said Minister Fitzharris.

Signage will be erected to alert residents when the works are to commence in specific areas, along with associated letterbox drops. Residents are reminded to take care when moving through an area in which work is being undertaken.