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Committee asks staff to explore lighting options at Chuckie Harris Park; residents now seek more light for safety
Summary
Councilors asked staff to investigate electrical hookups and alternatives (including solar or motion-activated lights) to increase lighting along the fence at Chuckie Harris Park near Minnesota Avenue after neighbors requested improved nighttime visibility; staff will follow up with an update to the committee.
The Public Utility & Public Works Committee discussed a request to increase lighting along the fence at Chuckie Harris Park, adjacent to properties on Minnesota Avenue, during its May 20 meeting.
Councilor McLaughlin said she held a community meeting and that residents most affected by the rear of the park now support additional lighting for safety. City liaison staff said they were investigating whether electrical hookups exist in the park and whether alternatives — such as solar-powered fixtures or motion-activated lights — would be appropriate.
"They're thinking about what...logistically what needs to happen and investigating what sort of electrical hookups exist in the park or if there are other options like a solar powered light," a liaison said. Committee members noted earlier neighborhood opposition to park lighting and emphasized the need to involve neighbors in design choices so lighting does not create unintended impacts. Councilor Scott suggested motion-detection lighting as a compromise to limit constant illumination while providing visibility when needed.
Staff agreed to continue the conversation with neighbors and to report back with options and a timeline. The chair asked for a staff update by the next full council meeting and said he would mark the item work complete if the liaison could provide that update in time.
