Dear Editor:
Over the past month several letters have been printed in this newspaper regarding the newer street lamps on Washington Street, up to 7th Street. From what I understand, the northern half of Washington Street, starting at 7th Street, will soon be renovated, replacing the old street lamps with these new pseudo-quaint ones.
First of all, Michael Korman, among other city officials, stated that the old street lamps were “ugly” and that they were replaced by the new ones “because this is what the people wanted.” Well, I for one, was never asked what my opinion on this issue was; I’ve been living here for 16 years. Nor did anyone ask any of my friends or acquaintances, which are many, about this issue. In my opinion, the old street lamps were neither “ugly” nor pretty. Actually, I prefer the older ones because their simple style blends in so well with its surroundings. Also, the source of light, being much higher than in the newer models, illuminates the sidewalks more effectively. Compare this to the way it is now, with the lights too bright and at eye-level. It feels as if someone is shining a flashlight directly into the eyes (once you’ve noticed this, it becomes a visual annoyance.) Taking a closer look, these “pretty” lamps appear to be cheaply made, although, according to Ken Geraghty’s letter, the cost to keep these high-intensity bulbs burning is anything but that.
My nighttime strolls along the main avenue, with those blaring lights, make me always feel like I am quickly approaching a DWI checkpoint. It’s infuriating to have someone tell me I wanted something that I didn’t, to have them insist that they asked me something when they didn’t and to then have them expect me to foot the (higher) bill.
As for the lights on the northern half of Washington Street, I say, leave it the way it is.
Amy E. Valent