Agenda - Public Works Committee - 05/21/2002

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P.W. CASE CONSIDER MODIFICATIONS TO THE STREET LIGHTING SYSTEM By: Brian Olson, Principal City Engineer Background: The purpose of this case is to discuss the standard subdivision light that is being used and determine the best course of action in the future. The second item to discuss is the extension of lighting on the Sunwood Drive project. The City of Ramsey has a standard street light that they install on all residential subdivisions. The standard traditionaire can be seen in the attached picture and is mounted 14 feet above the street. The 150 watt standard was selected in the past due to the absence of any alternative. Recently, the Illuminating Engineering Standards (IES) recommended that 150 watt fixture not be used due to the effect (glare) on the passing motorists. Due to this reason, Connexus is also recommending that we change our standard to a 100 watt semi-cutoff traditionaire to reflect the new recommendations. This semi cutoff traditionaire can also be see on the attachment. The cost to install these fixtures am paid for by the Developer of a subdivision. The cost to install the standard traditionaire is approximately $850 per light plus the cost to extend wires to the fixture. The monthly operating cost for this 150 watt fixture is $6.46. The cost to install the wiring for these two types of fixtures will remain constant and therefore is not included in this comparison. The cost to install the semi-cutoff traditionaire is approximately $980 per light and the monthly operating cost for this 100 watt fixture is $5.45. The benefit to installing the semi cutoff traditionaire is the lower monthly costs as well as the decreased amount of glare that emits from the fixture. The second item to consider is the extension of lighting along the new section of Sunwood Drive between County Road 116 and Sunfish Lake Boulevard. We got a proposal for the extension of lighting along Sunwood Drive to make the feel consistent with the industrial park between Ramsey Boulevard and County Road 116. This cost is estimated at $15,898 and would give the two industrial parks along Sunwood Drive uniformity. This expenditure would be TIF eligible and them are funds available in this TIF district. Action: Motion to recommend to the City Council to change the standard city subdivision light to a 100 watt semi cutoff traditionaire mounted at the 14 foot height. Motion to recommend to the City Council to extend the lighting scheme of Sunwood Drive NW between Ramsey Boulevard and County Road 116 to the new section of Sunwood Drive NW. Reviewed by: Director of Public Works Finance Officer PW: 05/21/02