Council addresses outdated lighting infrastructure on West McNichols in Detroit

In a recent Detroit City Council Budget Hearing, the Public Lighting Department (PLD) and the Public Lighting Authority (PLA) discussed critical updates regarding the city’s aging street lighting infrastructure. The meeting, held on March 20, 2025, highlighted the ongoing efforts to modernize the lighting system while addressing the challenges posed by outdated power lines and poles.

As city officials gathered under the fluorescent lights of the council chamber, the conversation centered on the decommissioning of old power lines that have long hindered the installation of a modern lighting system. The PLD is currently in the process of removing these obsolete lines, which will pave the way for new street lights. However, the transition has not been without its complications. The initial bond sale of $180 million, while sufficient to activate critical areas, fell short of fully upgrading the entire lighting system, leaving many neighborhoods with poles that are decades old.

Council members expressed concerns about the uneven distribution of lighting across the city, particularly in areas like West McNichols, where some streets feature a mix of old wooden poles and newer metal ones. This inconsistency has led to complaints from local business owners and residents, especially regarding the installation of holiday lights, which have been hampered by the inadequacy of the older poles.

One council member emphasized the need for uniformity in lighting, advocating for the replacement of dilapidated poles to ensure that all streets can enjoy festive decorations during the holiday season. The discussion also touched on the safety implications of poor lighting, particularly for students and residents navigating dimly lit areas.

In response to these concerns, officials assured the council that plans are in place to address these issues. They noted that capital projects are underway to replace old poles with modern alternatives, aiming to enhance both safety and aesthetics throughout the city. The council also discussed the importance of timely communication and collaboration between the PLD and PLA to ensure that all areas receive the attention they need.

As the meeting concluded, the council members left with a renewed commitment to improving Detroit’s lighting infrastructure, recognizing that adequate lighting is not just a matter of aesthetics but a crucial element of public safety and community pride. The path forward involves not only the replacement of old poles but also a concerted effort to engage with residents and business owners to ensure their needs are met.