Street Lights Initiative
When a Blake Street homeowner expressed concerns about inadequate street lighting on his block, NHS investigated and helped the homeowner to partner with neighbors to address the issue.
NHS introduced the homeowner to his local neighborhood block watch association. The block watch had mostly been active in the upper and more insular section of the neighborhood, where its membership was more concentrated. Consequently, issues regarding the lower and more exposed blocks were not typically represented at meetings of otherwise active residents. The owner, not having known about the group before NHS’ involvement, was happy to have discovered a much sought-after forum.
The New Haven Police Department district manager in attendance suggested that the matter be brought to the attention of city officials by way of the Mayor’s Night Out community forum, which would take place the following night. Even with such short notice, four members of the block watch association (including its newest member) attended the event to file a formal request for lighting improvements.
Within a few weeks, improvements were made to the wattage of existing street lights and plans were underway for the installation of additional lampposts. The homeowner has since noticed the positive difference of the better street lighting in the neighborhood and is encouraged by the effectiveness of an organized and energetic resident group.
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