It’s reported that Springfield Park District officials hope they will soon be able to turn on the lights for the first time at Dreamland Park, 2300 Taylor Ave. However, Elliott McKinley, director of parks for the park district, said work is under way to run electricity to Dreamland Park and also install energy-efficient outdoor lights.
The new LED lights will use about 48 watts of power each compared to the 175 to 200 watts of standard lights. That averages out to be about 75 percent more efficient when it comes to power use, but there are also additional savings. also, LED fixtures last for about 50,000 to 75,000 hours, while standard lights last about 10,000 hours. That means workers will be buying and replacing fewer bulbs.
Areas where the 13 new lights are going to be installed include the parking lot — now illuminated only by a few nearby city streetlights — and the walking trails. Without a doubt, the new lights will enhance the safety and security. In addition, having electricity at the stage means more community events can be scheduled at Dreamland. Besides, people will be able to plug in appliances or equipment at the shelters and stage and also have the benefit of outdoor lighting during the evening.
The cost of the project is about $93,000. About $17,300 of that amount will cover the extra cost of 15 LED lights, and $6,600 will go toward lights in the parking lot. With the LED energy savings, the park district should be able to recoup its extra investment in less than 10 years. According to McKinley, the work is expected to conclude by mid-September.
