Looks like Southie’s turning a little greener. 

The City of Boston’s Department of Public Works has been busy replacing the old street lights (no – not the Southie bar Street Lights circa 1984) with new more energy efficient LED lights. 

Facts:

• The large number of city street lights (67,000+) has the potential to significantly cut energy use and carbon emissions (currently 24,000 tons/yr) by switching to LED lighting.
• LED fixtures can be “aimed” to minimize light trespass and light pollution.LEDs can produce enhanced visibility with better color rending (colors seem more natural).
• Long life and high reliability. Quality street lights can last 10-25 years depending on usage and can therefore offer significant reduction in maintenance costs compared with traditional lights sources that require replacement every 2-3 years.
• High efficiency with the potential to offer 50 to 80 percent energy savings

So look around your neighborhood, you might just have some new “greener” fixtures shedding a little light on your block.  Thanks Mayor Menino!