Leaders in Wheeling are helping the city step into a brighter, more sustainable future with the recent conversion of downtown streetlights to energy-efficient LED lighting.

As this project progresses, we urge city leaders to work with American Electric Power to not only brighten downtown, but all the city’s neighborhoods through replacement of older, high-pressure sodium streetlights with new LEDs.

The work already underway downtown is refreshing, to say the least. At Heritage Port, the downtown’s crown jewel, the older lights cast an amber pall over the area. Now, the new LEDs provide a crisp look that is much more appealing.

“If you get a chance, take a look at Heritage Port at night, and I think you’ll be surprised at the difference that the light going from the high-pressure sodium lights to LED lights has in that area,” Wheeling City Manager Robert Herron said. “It’s actually absolutely spectacular.”

The benefits of LED lighting extend beyond aesthetics. They offer long-term savings on maintenance and energy efficiency, making them a practical choice for the city’s newly minted infrastructure.

The LED conversion is more than an upgrade; it’s a symbol of Wheeling’s dedication to progress and sustainability. As the city continues to invest in such initiatives, it sets a precedent for other communities aiming to enhance their infrastructure while being mindful of environmental impacts.

This program is but one step in Wheeling illuminating not only its streets but also its path toward a more sustainable and vibrant future.