Academics continue to prove that simple improvements to street lighting reduce crime. In a new paper, Can Enhanced Street Lighting Improve Public Safety at Scale?, the authors examine a large-scale enhancement of street lighting in Philidelphia. In honor of new technology shining through on an old idea, here’s some background on the humble street lamp.
A Brief History of Street Lighting: Purpose, Progress, and Payment
The history of street lighting is deeply intertwined with the growth of cities and the need for safety, security, and functionality after dark. From ancient torches to modern LED systems, the evolution of streetlights reflects technological advancements and shifting urban priorities.
The Early Days: Fire and Flame
In ancient Rome and Greece, rudimentary street lighting consisted of torches and oil lamps, primarily used to guide travelers and deter crime. During the Middle Ages, European cities relied on lanterns carried by watchmen or hung outside homes. However, these systems were inconsistent, often dependent on individuals rather than citywide planning.
The Rise of Public Street Lighting
By the 1600s, cities like Paris and London began formalizing street lighting. Residents were required to hang lanterns outside their homes, creating a patchwork of illumination. In 1667, King Louis XIV ordered the installation of thousands of public lanterns, making Paris one of the first cities with structured street lighting.
Gaslight and Electricity: A New Era
The 19th century saw a revolution in street lighting with the advent of gas lamps. First introduced in London in 1807, gas lamps quickly spread to other major cities. These lights significantly improved nighttime visibility and were maintained by lamplighters who manually lit and extinguished them each day. By the late 1800s, electric arc lamps began replacing gas lighting, offering brighter and more reliable illumination. Cleveland, Ohio, was among the first cities to install electric streetlights in 1879, setting the stage for the widespread adoption of incandescent bulbs in the early 20th century.
Who Pays for the Light?
As street lighting became essential, cities had to find ways to fund it. Early efforts relied on:
- Resident Contributions (1600s): Homeowners were required to provide their own lighting.
- Taxation (1700s-1800s): Municipal governments introduced street lighting taxes, often targeting businesses and property owners who benefited most.
- Gas Company Contracts (1800s-early 1900s): Cities partnered with private gas companies, paying for services through public funds or direct utility fees.
- Municipal Ownership (1900s-Present): Cities took over the operation and maintenance of electric streetlights, funding them through general budgets, local taxes, and utility surcharges.
- Modern Innovations (2000s-Present): With the rise of LED technology and smart lighting, cities are using efficiency grants, state funding, and public-private partnerships to offset costs. Some municipalities lease streetlight poles to telecom companies for 5G infrastructure, generating additional revenue.
Lighting the Future
Today, smart streetlights with sensors and adaptive brightness are transforming urban landscapes, reducing energy costs while improving safety and sustainability. The journey from candle-lit lanterns to intelligent lighting networks reflects a broader evolution of cities—constantly adapting to new technologies and the needs of their residents.
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