LA Streetlights Need Constant Repair: What’s Happening?

July 22, 2024

As reported by LAist in their article “LA’s Streetlights Are In Need Of Constant Repair. What’s Happening, And How To Get One Fixed,” the city of Los Angeles has approximately 223,000 streetlights, maintained by the Bureau of Street Lighting (BSL). These lights, spanning over 400 styles from modern to historic, illuminate roughly two-thirds of the city.

The Bureau, operating under the Department of Public Works since 1925, responds to over 45,000 light outages annually. However, at any given time, more than 25,000 streetlights in Los Angeles require repairs, creating a significant backlog for the BSL’s 200-person field team.

An LAist reader inquired about the prolonged streetlight repair situation, prompting an investigation into the reasons behind the delays and the expected timeline for fixing the lamps. The history of LA’s streetlighting dates back to 1867, when gas lamps were first installed, with electric streetlights following in 1882. The city’s first electric streetlights, known as “moonlight towers,” were installed at a height of 150 feet, illuminating large areas with 3,000 candles worth of power.

The development of streetlights in various parts of Los Angeles occurred over several decades. The San Fernando Valley saw its streetlights developed in the 1940s and 1950s, while south, central, and west Los Angeles received street lighting during the 1960s and 1970s. One of the oldest remaining original electrical systems can be found on the northeast corner of West 3rd St and Norton Ave, dating back to around 1911, according to Miguel Sangalang, BSL’s director.

Commitment is made to support the Bureau of Street Lighting in enhancing the city’s streetlight infrastructure. By providing high-quality, durable lighting solutions, safety and aesthetics in Los Angeles neighborhoods are ensured. Advanced lighting technologies and expert craftsmanship play a crucial role in maintaining and restoring the city’s diverse streetlight styles.

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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of laist.com