LED lighting upgrade project completed at Flaherty Park Tennis Courts
The lighting upgrade project at the Flaherty Park Tennis Courts, 1226 N. White St., has been completed in just over a week’s time.
On March 25, Walter Holmes Electric, a contractor working on behalf of the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Department, began upgrading the lights at the public tennis courts. A 2022 Wake Forest Bond Referendum initiative, the Relamp Project entailed a complete overhaul of the tennis courts’ lighting system and the changing out of the metal halide light fixtures to more energy efficient and effective LED light fixtures.
Even though the light output is now significantly greater, the energy usage is significantly less. LED bulbs use less power (watts) relative to the amount of light generated (lumens) and help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by saving energy.
The previous metal-halide lighting fixtures used 1,000-watt bulbs that required constant maintenance and used a considerable amount of energy. Thanks to the new LED fixtures, the power per fixture was reduced by 55%, to 450 watts, which provides brighter lighting and better color rendition, making it easier to see the ball.
The LED lights also feature instant-on capability, as opposed to the metal halide, which took several minutes to reach full brightness.
Controlled by a timer, the new lighting system is operated by push button controls that allow the lights to come on 30 minutes before dusk and remain on until 10 p.m. The system allows for approximately 60 minutes of play per session but can be extended with the push of a button, so players have more time.
The new lighting system also includes a state-of-the-art control and monitoring system that allows for remote on/off operations, dimming capabilities, and performance monitoring. This level of control and service ensures that the courts’ lighting can be managed efficiently, with minimal waste and maximum flexibility to meet the community's needs.
At a total cost of $178,511, the Relamp Project is expected to result in significant energy and cost savings for years to come.
The PRCR Department wishes to thank the community for its patience and understanding throughout the Relamp Project. For more information, contact Athletics & Aquatics Manager Edward Austin at 919-435-9562 or [email protected].