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600451-00041-1 Report Abstract

The Impact of the Conversion of Incandescent Bulbs to the LED Light Source in Traffic Signals in Houston: A Step toward Sustainable Control Devices

Khosro Godazi, Alexandra Miller, Ronald E. Goodwin, June 2015

With the slowing of the American economy since 2008, it has become imperative that municipalities identify areas in which costs can be reduced while still providing needed services to its constituents. The use of traffic signals equipped with light emitting diodes (LED) provides opportunities for urban municipalities to conserve both tax dollars and energy. With other advantages, such as the reduced maintenance, a longer life span, and more illumination than the standard incandescent light bulb, LED’s have become a viable option in cities around the globe as a first step in reducing municipal costs. Furthermore, LED traffic signals could be retrofitted to solar energy in the future thereby enhancing the move towards “green” technologies. The City of Houston is the focus of this case study evaluating the use of LED traffic signals at selected intersections in and near the urban core.

Keywords: Conversion, Incandescent Bulbs, LED Light

ENTIRE REPORT (Adobe Acrobat File – 315 KB)