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May 22, 2008 10:51 pm US/Central
Plan To Illuminate White Rock Lake Area Halted
DALLAS (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
The shores of White Rock Lake in Dallas have washed up a bit of a controversy. But it's not the lake or the people who enjoy the surroundings; the battle is over street lights.
"I wouldn't feel comfortable without 'em," said White Rock cyclist Kelly Wilson.
There are 17 of the lights in one parking lot alone near Fisher Road. But none of them have been turned on because some neighbors say it's too many, too bright and too much of an eyesore.
"All of a sudden they flood this one parking lot," explained Dallas City Councilmember Sheffie Kadane. "And it's like you're lighting up a baseball field or something. That's not what we want."
Dallas police, city officials and residents met Thursday night to discuss the situation. Those who oppose the lights also said the lights would attract crime. But supports say it's quite the opposite, stating the lights would make the lake safer.
Two lights at Winfrey Point have been turned on for nearly two years and according to city officials no one has complained. But there are plans to erect 52 new lights in various parking lots around White Rock Lake. Each light stands 20 feet tall and illuminates 100 watts of electricity.
The meeting was heated at times. But in the end, the city agreed to go back to the drawing board and develop a new master plan that is more environmentally friendly. That plan could lead to a reduction to the number of lights.
Until then, the city has put a halt to the lighting project.
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