Council authorizes $42,150 to install five solar light poles in Wilman Way alley

The Windcrest City Council voted March 25 to authorize approximately $42,150 to install five 20-foot solar-powered light poles in the Wilman Way alley to improve safety, pedestrian visibility and aesthetics.

Public Works staff explained the poles were purchased earlier (poles on hand at the city yard) following a 2024 request; because installation must meet Texas Department of Transportation specifications the city requested bids for outside installation. ‘‘The plan is to go into the Woman Way Alley…we got 2 bids back only,’’ a Public Works speaker said, naming Ezybelle and Pavecon. The Ezybelle bid was $42,150 and Pavecon’s was $54,565; staff recommended the low bidder, Ezybelle.

Staff described the alley as a dark, heavily used corridor where apartment residents and homeowners walk. The contractor performed a lighting study; two poles would be located behind garden homes on Roman Way and staff said they would attempt minimal disruption and provide notice to directly affected residents. The poles are under warranty and remain in original packaging at the city yard, staff added.

A council member moved to authorize the project; the motion was seconded and approved by voice/hand vote. Staff said funding is available in the alley repairs and improvements line (municipal finance officer confirmed availability) and that the project is below the competitive-bid threshold that would require a different procurement process.

Staff estimated installation would take about one to one-and-a-half months. Council directed staff to notify affected residents and to return appropriate budget paperwork to reflect the expenditure.