Johnson Park to get new, energy efficient lighting | Environment

ANDALUSIA, AL (WSFA) - The Andalusia Utilities Board is getting a $154,500 loan to upgrade lighting at Johnson Park.

Governor Robert Bentley's office said the loan, at zero percent interest, will be used to replace lighting units at the park’s sports fields. Sixty-four units that are more energy efficient and produce 25 percent more light will be installed. City officials estimate the new lighting will save an estimated $15,667 in energy costs annually.

The 40-acre park contains; the administrative offices for the Department of Leisure Services and serves as the youth athletic complex for Andalusia and includes, 11 ball fields (4 girls softball, 3 boys t-ball, 3 Little League, and 1 Babe Ruth), full size gymnasium, and Johnson Skate Park.

“Energy-efficiency improvements to public facilities are a good investment, both economically and environmentally,” Bentley said. “Andalusia is taking steps that not only will save energy and money, but also will produce more lighting for the children and families who use the sports fields at night.”     

The new lights will include equipment that makes it possible to turn them on and off remotely on a set schedule by computer. Previously lighting had to be manually switched on and off each night.

The loan is part of the Local Government Energy Loan Program administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.

The program helps municipal and county governments, K-12 schools, colleges and universities pay the up-front costs of energy-saving improvements.

Using the money saved on utility bills, the loan is repaid in installments within 10 years.