NEWPORT BEACH : Plan Would Replace Aging Street Lights

The old, wooden street-light poles that for decades have towered over Newport Island are soon to be bygones under a plan to be considered by the City Council today.

In a unique agreement in Newport Beach, the city will replace the old island lights with more modern and energy-efficient ones and also put the utility wires underground, and the residents will pay the initial bill.

“It’s an interesting arrangement,” said Public Works Director Benjamin J. Nolan.

Under the agreement, each of approximately 100 households on the island would pay an estimated $5,850 for the project toward the total project cost of just over $675,000.

After that, the city would pay for maintenance and operation of the lights and utility wires.

Last year, slightly more than 70% of the island residents supported a petition to begin the project and form an assessment district, but a few households continue to oppose the plan.

Households can either pay in cash for their share or take out a 15-year bond to cover costs.

Those still opposed can petition the City Council for exclusion.

The new lights would be a visual and aesthetic change from the old, wooden Edison-style poles that for decades have held bright, white lights.

Just a few lights dot the island. The plan will bring in about half a dozen more, which will cast a light yellow glow on the island.

They are expected to be at least twice as energy-efficient as the existing ones, Nolan said.

If the plan is approved, construction will begin in mid-July and be completed by December.