UPDATE: Residents of Elmwood Village in Buffalo, NY are raising urgent concerns about the harshness of new LED streetlights recently installed by National Grid. This lighting upgrade, aimed at being more eco-friendly, has sparked significant backlash from long-time residents who feel that it alters the neighborhood’s charm.
Bill Altreuter, a concerned resident, describes the stark contrast between the new bright white lights and the traditional yellow-toned streetlights. “It’s sort of jarring to have that kind of brightness,” Altreuter stated. He expressed that the new lights create a “clinical appearance” that clashes with the neighborhood’s aesthetics, detracting from the overall experience of walking through the area.
Residents are voicing their frustrations on social media, particularly in an active Elmwood Village Facebook group, where many share similar sentiments about the disruptive brightness. With the lights fully operational, Altreuter emphasized that the change “doesn’t match the overall aesthetics” cherished by locals.
Officials from National Grid and Councilmember David Rivera, who represents the Niagara District, have acknowledged these concerns. Rivera stated that while the new lights are designed to be environmentally friendly and cost-effective, he is open to collaborating with residents who prefer the warmer, more quaint lighting of the past. “Certainly, I’d be amenable to working with the neighbors if they like the more quaint, warmer lights,” Rivera said.
Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions by calling the city’s 311 hotline. Altreuter believes greater community involvement should have preceded the changes, calling for more engagement in decision-making. “Is there a compromise? Sure. Don’t get it wrong in the first place and don’t do things in a way that doesn’t include the people who live in this neighborhood,” he stressed.
Rivera assured residents that solutions are on the table, including adjusting brightness levels or installing shields to minimize glare. “We will work with Public Works and National Grid to address the concerns that people have,” he said, expressing hope for a common ground to improve the situation.
As this story unfolds, residents of Elmwood Village remain vigilant, advocating for a lighting solution that aligns with their community’s character. The discourse reflects a broader conversation about urban development and resident involvement, making this issue resonate beyond just one neighborhood.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Elmwood Village residents seek a resolution to the LED streetlight dilemma.
