Add Row 
Add 
What’s Behind the Purple Street Lights Spotted in Michigan?
In recent years, many Michigan homeowners might have noticed an unusual sight while driving through their neighborhoods: purple street lights. This might spark thoughts of artistic city planning or trendy aesthetics, but the reality tells a different story.
The Culprit: Manufacturing Flaws and Aging Equipment
According to lighting experts, the appearance of purple street lights has more to do with manufacturing defects rather than any intentional design choice. Most of these lights started their journey as standard white LED fixtures. As time went on, flaws in the phosphor coating—responsible for converting blue light into the pleasant white we expect—have caused the glow to shift towards a purplish hue. Michele Lapicco, a lighting consultant, explains that this shift is a result of degradation that unveils the cooler light underneath.
Implications for Homeowners: Safety and Visibility
For those planning evening drives through their neighborhood, it’s essential to understand that these purple lights could impact safety on the road. While they can look fascinating, their distinct hue can limit nighttime visibility. Alisha Kessler, a lighting product manager at Enbrighten, notes that purple LED lights can reduce contrast, making it harder for drivers and pedestrians to identify hazards. This can be particularly alarming in areas that already lack sufficient light or signage.
Replacing Purple Street Lights: What You Need to Know
As many municipalities across the country began to install energy-efficient LED street lights around 2018, purplish hues became more prevalent due to a shared supply chain problem. The good news is that many cities, including those in Southeast Michigan, are already taking steps to replace these defective lights. However, the timeline and extent of these changes are not always clear, and homeowners should keep an eye on announcements from local authorities.
Engaging with Your Community: What You Can Do
As a homeowner, being proactive in your community is crucial. If you notice many faulty purple street lights in your area, voicing your concerns to your neighborhood association or local council might help expedite replacements. Participating in community forums or discussions can also lead to greater awareness about the importance of street lighting in residential areas.
Conclusion: Knowledge Is Power
Understanding the reason behind the purple lights can empower homeowners in Michigan to advocate for better lighting on their roads. Keeping communication open with local officials about visibility concerns can contribute to safer neighborhoods.
As visible as these purple lights might be, they bring a valuable lesson about the standards of public safety and community engagement. Don't hesitate to reach out and make your voice heard when it comes to matters that affect you and your yard!
Write A Comment