Boulder is seeking feedback on new colors for LED streetlights

DENVER (KDVR) — Street lights in Boulder will soon be switching to light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, and the city of Boulder is asking the community for input on their preferred color temperature.

Boulder is Purchase of 4,500 street lights which was previously owned by Xcel Energy, saying it was a cost-saving measure as costs had increased over the years.

Of the 5,100 streetlights in Boulder, the city owned and operated only 600. According to the city, the lights use LEDs.

Why is Boulder changing its streetlights?

Boulder estimates this will save over $1 million in operations and maintenance costs each year. Purchasing the lights and upgrading to LEDs will cost an estimated $7 million, but over 20 years the city aims to save about $13.6 million.

In addition to saving the city money, LED lights also use less electricity, so the switch can reduce emissions by about 1,000 tons of CO2, the equivalent of removing about 254 vehicles from the road, according to the city.

Street lights will also be more reliable. The city said the current streetlights do not notify Xcel when a light goes out, so the lights are not repaired or replaced until someone reports the outage. The move includes technology that notifies the city when a lamp needs repair.

In addition, you benefit from better lighting quality and dimmable functions Improving visibility and safety in the whole city.

What is your preferred color temperature for LED light?

LED streetlight conversions in Boulder will begin in 2024. In the meantime, the city is asking the community to share their preferred color temperature for streetlights, meaning how warm or cool the light appears.

Sample lights are available to the community at two locations in the city so they can see the options in person. The residential street options are along Spruce Pool and the street options are along 28th Street south of the Iris Avenue intersection.

You can share your post via the now until November 1st Be Heard Boulder online questionnairewhich is available in both English and Spanish.

Based on community feedback, the city will then evaluate options, taking into account best practices from other cities.