LED lights installed on U.S. 98

New LED lighting could be part of a solution to help boost safety for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians along U.S. 98 east of Gulf Breeze. 

Gulf Power Company issued a press release stating that it is collaborating with the Florida Department of Transportation to test nine new LED streetlights near the Gulf Breeze Zoo as part of a project that could significantly increase the lights installed along the bustling state corridor.

 The fixtures will be installed on Thursday — three each from three manufacturers — to test their performance. 

 “We found energy-efficient lighting solutions that would provide the best quality of light for darkened roadways,” said Natalie Smith, Gulf Power spokesperson, in a press release. “This is a partnership to help make our highways safer for people in our community.”

 Gulf Power had evaluated numerous lighting fixtures and the state chose the best three solutions for streetlights. Gulf Power and FDOT will evaluate the lights for their performance. FDOT is looking into different options for improving safety, especially for pedestrians and bicyclists, along the corridor. The state will cover construction and installation costs for the project, and the county and the state will share the operation and maintenance costs.