South Charlotte residents fired up over new LED streetlights

The Story

Some residents along Carmel Forest Drive aren’t too happy with their new LED streetlights.

The Facts

– The lights were installed by the Charlotte Department of Transportation.

– CDOT says the new lights use less energy and are more environmentally friendly.

– Some residents complain that the bright lights ruin the street’s ambiance. Others like the brightness because they can see deer and nighttime walkers better.

The Quotes

– “… makes the community feel like a Walmart parking lot at night.” – resident Kelly Ross

– “People are happy they’re more environmentally friendly, more efficient and use less power.” – CDOT spokeswoman Linda Durrett

C5’s Take

Quite an illuminating debate.

Photos by Elisabeth Arriero/Charlotte Observer

This story was originally published April 1, 2015 at 8:25 AM with the headline "South Charlotte residents fired up over new LED streetlights."