February 15, 2011
02/16/11 Drivers in Plymouth will notice a change in the lights used in the traffic signals in the near future thanks to the generosity of Michiana Contracting.
Governmental agencies across the nation have been changing from incandescent traffic signal bulbs to the more efficient LED bulbs. Over the last several years Michiana Contracting has accumulated several hundred used LED bulbs from various INDOT contracted projects that they have completed. The used bulbs are approximately 2 to 4 year old and the normal life expectancy for the new LED bulbs is 7 to 10 years or longer.
The proposal Michiana Contracting presented to the city includes the installation at five of the six city owned signals at NO COST for the bulbs or installation. They will take care of traffic control during the change out and will warranty the bulbs for 30 days. After that city employees should be able to maintain the LED bulbs with their own crews. The cost of new LED bulbs range from $40 to $50 each depending on the color and quantity purchased.
The City owned signal that will get the upgrades are:
S. Michigan @ Pennslyvania
Jefferson @ Center St
Jefferson @ Oak Rd
Oak Rd @ Pidco
N. Michigan @ Hoham
The only other City owned signal is on the east end of town, Jefferson @ Lincolnway. This signal has specialized signal heads because of both viewing angles of the westbound traffic.
The INDOT owned traffic signals in the city already have the LED bulbs installed. These would be the seven signals starting with S. Michigan (SR17) at Laporte St. and going north to the signal for N. Michigan at McDonalds/Walgreen.
Street Superintendent Jim Marquardt explained that the LED bulbs will cost less to operate so he will contact NIPSCO once the change over is complete to ask them to re-calculate the monthly charge to the city to operate the traffic signals.
Mike Delp said the City of Plymouth could see a saving of approximately $150 monthly for the 5 intersection. The estimated savings for a year would range from $1,800 to $2,000.
During the Board of Public Works and Safety meeting Delp said, “We at Michiana all feel privileged to be a part of this community and would be happy to contribute in this small way.”
The Board of Public Works and Safety unanimously accepted the proposal.