Overview

The Washington State Department of Transportation is replacing several luminaires in Island, King, Snohomish, Skagit, Thurston and Whatcom counties with new, energy-efficient light-emitting-diode (LED) luminaires. In addition, some lights will be removed as part of a new, more efficient approach to highway lighting.

Why is WSDOT initiating a lighting reform program?

After several years of research on the benefits of lighting and its connection to crash reduction, WSDOT has adjusted its approach to lighting, in essence rethinking where we light and why. This new way to look at lighting focuses on lighting’s actual role in crash reduction.

The End Result
The LED lights to be installed provide a whiter light that improves visibility for drivers. The adaptive control technology allows crews to remotely dim or change lighting as conditions warrant.

Project Benefits

 Safety:

Environmental Benefits 

In one year, the new light system will:

• Reduce annual energy usage by 2.6 million kW h (kilowatt-hours), saving $217,554 in utility costs
• Reduce annual maintenance costs by $36,900
• Reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by over 993 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent  

What is the project timeline?

The project is in design and should begin Spring 2016. 

Spring 2016 - Procure LED lighting and materials

Summer 2016 - Installation begins

Spring 2017 - Project completion

Financial Information

The estimated $4.6 million project provides significant financial, maintenance and environmental efficiency savings through the use of innovative project delivery, financing and contracting tools. 

This project is funded through the following sources:

WSDOT is using the state’s Energy Saving Performance Contracting process through the Department of Enterprise Services for this project. By leveraging utility savings along with state and federal grants, utility rebates and a certificate of participation this project will be funded within existing resources. The projected annual savings will be greater than the debt service payment.