30+ Street Lights were Out.

In Plain Sight
Minimal changes make massive impact.

During a recent Uptown Planners community meeting, the Engagement Committee reported 30+ streetlights along University Ave had gone out, leaving Uptown's busiest corridor dangerously dark.

We documented the issue and identified the affected locations. (Yes we counted 30) A few follow-up conversation later, most of the streetlights were repaired and restored to service.

“Thank you for reaching out regarding the streetlights long University Ave in Eastern Hillcrest. I verified with the Transportation Department that these lights are a part of a series circuit. A series circuit  is an electrical circuit where components are connected end-to-end, forming a single path for current flow. This means if one goes out, all of them go out just like the older Christmas lights.

This circuit runs from 3rd Ave to Park Blvd.  A portion of this circuit was converted recently and restored lighting to 18 poles.  At this time, no further series circuit conversions are anticipated, only repairs where possible.” City of SD

The result is simple and important. Better lighting improves visibility, safety, supports neighborhood businesses, enhances the experience of everyone who lives, works, and visits Uptown. It's a reminder that community planning isn't only about large development projects.

We are still waiting for an answer about the orange cone covering the live wires on the westbound sidewalk bridge over Highway 163. The cone displays a City of San Diego logo. It’s in plain sight for years. A light post used to be there.

Sometimes it's about noticing the everyday details that make a neighborhood better.