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Court backs Lights Out Texas and moves forward on Old Red Courthouse renovation with bird‑safe glass and a contractor selection
Summary
The Commissioners Court passed a Lights Out Texas resolution encouraging reduced nighttime lighting during bird migrations and approved an RFP award for the Old Red Courthouse renovation; officials said the county will incorporate bird‑safe glass into the project and continue efforts to reduce light pollution at county buildings.
Dallas County Commissioners on Oct. 7 unanimously adopted a Lights Out Texas resolution urging businesses, institutions and residents to dim nonessential exterior lighting during fall migration, and the court approved a procurement action and solicitation related to renovation of the Old Red Courthouse that county leaders said will incorporate bird‑safe glazing.
Why it matters: Dallas County is one of the region's major migratory stopovers for birds; county participation in Lights Out and design choices for a high‑profile renovation can reduce bird collisions and set an example for other property owners.
Commissioner Garcia introduced the Lights Out Texas resolution and invited conservation partners to the podium; the resolution asked businesses and institutions to limit nonessential lighting during the county’s fall peak migration hours. A Texas Conservation Alliance representative said the county should “lead by example and turn off nonessential lights to protect both wildlife and our night skies.” Conservation partners also asked the county to support bird‑friendly design in large projects such as the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center master plan.
The court also considered RFPs and procurement items tied to the Old Red Courthouse renovation. Jesse Crawford, director of the county's small business enterprise program and an evaluation team member, said the bidders demonstrated relevant experience on historic preservation work and that the procurement “satisfied” participation goals. Commissioner Garcia stated the county will “demonstrate its long term commitment to protecting wildlife and the environment by incorporating a special bird safe glass in the renovation of Old Red Courthouse And Museum.”
Ending: Commissioners encouraged county departments, private developers and large institutions to support Lights Out hours during migration and said the county’s renovation plans will include bird‑safe materials and updated lighting where feasible.
