The design of our cities has a profound impact on the lives of those who live, work, and play in them. One often-overlooked element that plays a crucial role in public safety is lighting. Lighting continues to be downplayed through light pollution requirements, dark skies initiatives, and new technology, which creates new opportunities and challenges, more than ever.

The way we illuminate our streets, parks, and public spaces can significantly influence crime rates, pedestrian safety, and overall community well-being.

Shining a Light on Crime Prevention:

Studies have consistently shown a positive correlation between improved lighting and reduced crime rates. Well-lit environments make it more difficult for criminals to operate under the cover of darkness, deterring potential offenders and making it easier for witnesses to identify them. 

Sean Ahrens, a security expert with over 23 years of experience, highlights the importance of foreseeability in security management. By strategically assessing areas prone to criminal activity, and potential risks to public safety.

Beyond Crime Prevention: Building a Safer Community:

The benefits of good lighting extend far beyond crime prevention. Bright, well-maintained lighting can:

• Improve pedestrian safety: By illuminating crosswalks, sidewalks, and other areas where people walk, we can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

• Create a more vibrant and welcoming atmosphere: Well-lit public spaces encourage people to linger and interact, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

• Promote economic development: Brighter streets and plazas can attract businesses and customers, revitalizing neighborhoods and boosting the local economy.

• Increase the potential for people to remain in an area, thereby increasing legitimate use and displacing illegitimate use.

• Some technologies, especially surveillance need lighting to operate effectively.

Designing for Safety and Sustainability:

As we move forward, it's crucial to consider not only the crime-prevention benefits of lighting but also its impact. Implementing energy-efficient LED lighting solutions can significantly reduce energy consumption and associated costs, while still providing adequate illumination. However, there are drawbacks, LED’s are not a single luminary, rather an array. The array will degrade over time, slowly losing the total lumen output. Additionally, improperly deployed power sources can exacerbate the life of LED. More than ever, lighting maintenance must be developed. Moreover, procedures on how to evaluate and replace failing LED’s must be developed.

Investing in well-designed, lighting infrastructure is not just about aesthetics; it's an investment in public safety, community well-being, and a brighter future for our cities. By understanding the impact of lighting on various aspects of urban life, we can create safer, more vibrant, and sustainable spaces for everyone. Lighting will be more important in the future as environmental demands will require more lighting, more uniform lighting to minimize the potential for cirminal incidence.