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Clinton’s Traceway Park Lighting Project Underway, With Expanded Upgrades and Cost-Saving Initiatives
Major upgrades are in progress at Traceway Park as the City of Clinton embarks on the largest sports lighting retrofit and upgrade in Mississippi history. This transformative project, funded through bond money, represents a significant investment in the city’s recreational facilities and infrastructure while incorporating innovative strategies to maximize long-term savings.
In addition to replacing the lighting on 25 soccer and baseball fields, the City is also extending the light pole system along Pinehaven Drive to Arrow Drive. Furthermore, Clinton is purchasing the current light poles from Entergy, a move that is expected to save the City an estimated $400,000 annually in operational costs.
Project Highlights:
- Largest LED Conversion in Mississippi: Crews are actively upgrading 24 athletic fields with energy-efficient LED lighting, marking the largest field lighting conversion in state history.
- Safer and More Durable Infrastructure: Aging wooden poles are being replaced with steel poles designed for longevity and safety, ensuring sustainable operation for years to come.
- Expanded Lighting Upgrades: Light poles along Pinehaven Drive to Arrow Drive are being added to improve visibility and safety for drivers and pedestrians.
- Significant Cost Savings: By purchasing the existing poles from Entergy, the City will save approximately $400,000 per year in operational expenses. Additionally, the energy-efficient lighting system will reduce both energy consumption and maintenance costs.
- Enhanced Nighttime Experience: Upgraded lighting will provide brighter, more even illumination, creating safer conditions for athletes, spectators, and park visitors during evening activities.
- Reduced Light Pollution: Advanced fixtures are designed to cut glare and redirect spill light back onto playing surfaces, ensuring neighboring areas remain unaffected.
- Future-Proof Investment: A 25-year warranty on the new fixtures protects the City’s investment and guarantees long-term performance.
“This project is about more than just upgrading our facilities; it’s about investing in our community,” said Mayor Phil Fisher. “By utilizing bond money and making smart, cost-saving decisions like purchasing the poles from Entergy, we’re ensuring that Clinton remains a leader in recreational opportunities while being fiscally responsible. The addition of lighting along Pinehaven Drive to Arrow Drive also highlights our commitment to enhancing safety and accessibility across the city.”
Construction is progressing steadily, with crews working to remove outdated systems and install the new lighting infrastructure. The City anticipates significant improvements in both the park experience and operational efficiency once the project is completed.