You may have noticed some new streetlamps along New Hampshire Avenue in recent days. And if they look “different,” it is because they are.

Lakewood Township crews are in the process of installing approximately fifty solar-powered LED streetlamps to illuminate a stretch of sidewalk on New Hampshire Avenue – between Ridge Avenue and Route 88; enhancing pedestrian safety and comfort.

This project was put in motion by Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein and Township Engineering Manager Tony Poklasny, as conventional streetlights could not be installed in this area – which lacks the necessary electrical infrastructure to power them.

The new streetlamps offer the ideal solution: At 1,500 lumens, they are bright. Powered by solar, they do not require any electrical connections – all the while sparing taxpayers long term electrical costs; and being environmentally friendly.

The Township Committee and Engineers worked closely with a team of Township officials to bring the project to fruition, including: Brendan Weiner of the Engineering Department, who developed the lighting plan and field layout; and the Lakewood Department of Public Works (DPW), which is doing the installation under the direction of Ray Helmstetter Sr.; Ken Donaldson; and Mike Bovasso.

“Thanks to our great Engineering and Public Works officials, Lakewood has enhanced the safety and quality-of-life in yet another key area in town,” says Committeeman Lichtenstein. “Despite the challenges of being unable to do this project the ‘regular’ way, our team did not give up; and instead worked together successfully to innovate on behalf of our residents.”