City looks to the stars for lighting policy
Groveland, Florida, is a rapidly growing city west of Orlando, with a population that rose eightfold from 2000 to 2020. Without intervention, the Milky Way, now visible at night, would soon be obscured by light pollution like most suburban places.
The city, which adopted Transect-based zoning in 2020, is implementing a Dark Sky initiative that limits light pollution, saves energy, and enhances streetscapes. In doing so, it aligns with recommended practices in CNU’s Canons of Sustainable Architecture and Urbanism, which call for “limited light pollution” and streets to "be configured for both reduced overall energy usage and an enhanced quality of life in the public realm.”
The Dark Sky Lighting ordinance provides a strategy to update exterior lighting citywide, the city informed CNU. This will result in energy and cost savings, a safer pedestrian and driver experience, and capital improvements that include streetscape enhancements. New fixture factors include “shielding,” color temperature, intensity, and lighting timing.
Notes Mayor Evelyn Wilson: “The Dark Sky Initiative has been a true partnership between our city, residents, and businesses, all committed to reducing light pollution and preserving the natural beauty and charm of the night sky.”
The city budgeted $120,000 in the first year and $200,000 the following year. The city is purchasing lighting, instead of leasing, to have more control over fixtures and benefit from long-term savings. “Downtown lighting improvements include dark sky fixtures and light poles featuring smart controls, irrigated flower baskets, banner arms, and electrical outlets for holiday lighting,” the city notes.
Lighting fixtures have been installed downtown and in select residential subdivisions. The initiative is 20 percent implemented, with plans for lighting fixture changes in neighborhoods throughout the city. The city celebrates Dark Sky Week in April, with events that include stargazing. Groveland is the first International Dark Sky Community in Florida, but others are considering such ordinances, the city notes.
