Specs set for crosswalk lighting

After three demonstrations from two companies, representatives from the Siesta Key Village Association, the Siesta Key Association, and Sarasota County last night chose stone bollards to improve pedestrian safety at crosswalks in the Village.

Stonelight and Sunovia Energy Technologies, the two firms that produce the waist-high LED lighting fixtures, failed to impress Village stakeholders in a demonstration July 5. But with some tweaks to the product and twice the wattage, Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Chair Mark Smith said he is satisfied with the bollard’s specifications.

The only snag is in its placement. To throw enough light on pedestrians, the bollard must be positioned in the middle of at the top of the ramp dipping into crosswalks. Four Sarasota County employees, including Public Works Director Jim Harriott, were present for the hour-long demonstration, but could not determine if the bollard placement is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

For a full story on the tentative crosswalk lighting, pick up a copy of the Aug. 2 issue of the Pelican Press.