Hempstead installs decorative and traditional LED street lights

The Hempstead area on Long Island just east of New York City considers itself the largest township in the US in that the area is not incorporated as a city, but has a population near 800,000 people. The township has been spending $4.9 million each year on energy for street and area lighting, and also incurring significant maintenance costs. The expenses led Township Supervisor Anthony Santino to look at more cost-effective lighting to replace the largely high-pressure sodium (HPS) inventory.

The project started with a trial of Cree LED street lights along the Sunrise Highway. That trial documented 63% energy savings equating to $75,000 annually in energy costs. Moreover, the installation reassured the township officials that LEDs would provide quality light and the desired safe environment.