Street lights turned off on Hwy. 72 as cost saving measure

As a cost saving measure to reduce electric street lighting expenses, Rolla Municipal Utilities recently assisted the City of Rolla’s Public Works Department with the process of turning off several street lights located along Hwy. 72 (east of Lions Club Drive).

A total of 15 lights have been turned off, and should result in a cost saving of about $2,500 for the citizens of Rolla. The City’s annual street lighting electric bill is $180,000.

The Rolla City Council approved the 2011-2012 budget, which included a proposal to look for opportunities to reduce excess street lighting without compromising the public’s safety.  

“We want to assure the citizens and Rolla community that this new street lighting pilot program will not adversely impact the safety of motorists or the area,” said John Butz, Rolla City Administrator.   Butz said the City will also be looking at other areas in the community where the need for additional street lighting may be more critical.

In addition as part of this street lighting pilot project the City’s Public Works Director, Steve Hargis, is looking into new technology options for installing L.E.D. lights and solar power lights as a further cost saving measure.

If you have any questions or would like more information on this pilot project, please contact Rolla City Administration at 426-6943.