Opinion: Why all the outdoor ‘prison-yard lighting’ in Los Angeles?

To the editor: “Why aren’t people outraged about this?” asks Mariel Garza. (“Just because we can light up the night sky like it’s noontime, doesn’t mean we should,” Dec. 9)

Well, I was outraged when the prison-yard lighting in the alley behind my house first went in and proceeded to beam its invasive glare throughout the yard and into the house.

I called the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, which told me a neighbor requested it. The DWP did put up a “shade,” but the light is very high and the shade only extends halfway down. So, my outrage has turned to grief for the loss of a dark bedroom and a gently lit backyard.

Hopefully, increased awareness of the issues Garza has researched will prompt policy changes. It would be wonderful to have the night back.

Carolyn Widener, Venice

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