New technology moving into Lake Worth neighborhoods is expected to shine a light on problem areas while saving the city money.
The city is replacing 4,000 old light fixtures with new LED lights. The effort is supposed to save 250,000 dollars in energy costs. It will also aim to increase security and detect crime. The city says the new lights will brighten up images recorded on surveillance cameras to help make out criminal activity.
For the last two years, one Lake Worth resident says she's been afraid of taking her dog for a walk after dark.
"I try to get back before it's too dark outside, for my safety," said the woman who wishes to remain anonymous.
She says she has been propositioned by Johns, she's seen prostitution and drug activity on her street.
"You kind of see it and deal with it as best you can," she said.
In addition to the thousands of lights being replaced, the city is also adding 150 lights to dark areas. Lake Worth residents say they hope it will move criminal activity out of their neighborhoods.
"Around here it has died down, I’m not sure if it's because of the new lights," said the woman.
In the Lake Osbourne neighborhood, John Hand says it's definitely making people feel safer outdoors.
"They’ve always had lights here, but now I noticed they are a little brighter," said Hand. "I take walks around the lake and around the neighborhood and it's really nice having better lighting."
Thirteen percent of the light fixtures have been replaced. The city aims to have all of them replaced in then ext 75 days.
