CUSTOMER
The City of Reading is located in Southeastern Pennsylvania. It is a city surrounded by agricultural areas and bustling with industry. The Spring Street Tunnel is one of the most traveled streets in the city of Reading.
CHALLENGES
The 225 foot long, two-lane roadway tunnel runs under many railroad tracks and has stood for almost 100 years. The tunnel has long been one of the darkest and most unattractive spots in the City. The incandescent bulbs were dim and burned out frequently.
SOLUTION
A new set of eleven Light Emitting Diode (LED) fixtures is now up and running. The lights are positioned at the top centerline of the tunnel and provide even, bright white light to all who pass through by car or on foot. These lights were installed by Atlantic Energy Concepts.
Mayor Tom McMahon stated, “The new lights are intended to make the area safer, more attractive, and economical for our citizens and visitors.” He further added, “Perception is reality, the good appearances of our City are important, and this project is a big step in tackling one of our biggest problems. The tunnel is one of our most traveled roads in the City and is also on the route of our annual national professional bike race each June.”
The Director of Public Works, Mr. Charles Jones, who oversaw the project, praised the new lights saying, “We could not keep up with replacing the old bulbs. Now with a projected LED bulb lifetime of up to 100,000 hours, we do not have to worry about this for the next ten years. In addition we expect to save about $15,000 or more in electricity over the life of these lights. We like environmental green projects.”
Installation of the new lights was performed by Atlantic Energy Concepts. Vice President Brad Salamone is proud of the LED technology saying, “These lights are state-of-the-art. They are the some of the most efficient lights on the market and we are among the first companies in the eastern part of Pennsylvania to install them. Tunnels, bridges, landmarks and many outdoor lighting needs can be met very effectively with this new technology. You will be seeing a great deal more of these lights in the future.”
Technical assistance was provided by William McMahon Jr. P.E of ECON Opportunities, Inc of Reading, who noted, “Old light levels were almost zero in most areas of the tunnel at night when there is no ambient light. New light levels are about 5 foot-candles throughout, which will make it much safer and more attractive. When the walls are painted, the light levels will even be several times brighter.”