KICK OFF LED STREETLIGHT MODERNIZATION PROJECT WITH LIGHTING EVENT

Published on June 04, 2025

MAYOR ED GAINEY, CITY COUNCIL, AND CITY DEPARTMENTS KICK OFF LED STREETLIGHT MODERNIZATION PROJECT WITH SYMBOLIC LIGHTING EVENT

Pittsburgh, PA – In the evening of June 3rd, Mayor Ed Gainey officially kicked off the City of Pittsburgh’s LED Streetlight Modernization Project by illuminating a newly upgraded section of roadway in the Manchester neighborhood. The event showcased the difference between the outdated high-pressure sodium (HPS) lights and the new LED fixtures—demonstrating a brighter, safer, and more energy-efficient future for Pittsburgh’s streets. 

Standing beneath the soft glow of the new lights, Mayor Gainey was joined by Council President Lavelle, the Department of City Planning, and the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure, who are leading the installation and infrastructure work across the city. 

“This project is about more than just new bulbs,” said Mayor Gainey. “It’s about equity, safety, and sustainability. We’re investing in every neighborhood—making sure every resident feels safe and seen, no matter where they live.” 

The LED Streetlight Modernization Project will upgrade 35,536 streetlights citywide over the next two years. In addition to replacing inefficient HPS fixtures, the city has conducted a comprehensive study to identify areas lacking adequate lighting. The goal was to ensure a consistent standard of public safety and quality of life across all Pittsburgh communities. 

The event highlighted the impact of the new LED lighting with a side-by-side comparison—half the street remained under older, orange-tinted lighting, while the other half glowed under the warm, clearer LED fixtures designed to meet the City’s Dark Sky Lighting ordinance. 

Funded by $3 million in American Rescue Plan dollars and $12 million in bond financing, the project represents a significant step forward in Pittsburgh’s climate goals, reducing energy consumption and light pollution while improving service reliability. 

Installation is already underway and will continue through 2026. Residents can track the progress and learn more about the project at pghled.org. 

Jacob Williams
Press Officer
Jacob.Williams@pittsburghpa.gov
(412) 667-8264