Almost the entire Bargara Esplanade will soon be fitted with smart technology that will allow for greater control of lighting including dimming and motion sensor capabilities.
A tender has been released for the installation of the smart pedestrian lights, which is part of the Reducing Urban Glow project, with a view to having it operational by mid-2020.
Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Jack Dempsey said the best practice approach would make Bargara a model of the application of smart lighting technology.
“This project will see the installation of new turtle friendly lighting between Schuhkraft Park and the roundabout on Burkitt Street,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“This stretch of esplanade will also incorporate smart technology that is responsive to community needs.
“What that will mean is that at night the lights will automatically be reduced to a lower level or 20% illumination.
“When the lights detect pedestrian movement, for instance by someone walking along the pathway, they will automatically increase to 100% illumination while that person walks by.”
The tender for the smart lighting technology closes in early January.
Smart lighting technology will also be rolled out in parks
Mayor Dempsey said in a separate project, that still sits under the Reducing Urban Glow banner, lighting was being reviewed at Oaks, Nielson, Crawford, Christensen and the Bargara Turtle parks.
“Council is also committed to improving the lighting in these parks to minimise their impact on marine life.
“Each of these locations will see some improvement, which could be as simple as adding a shield or reducing the height of an existing light.
“We’ll also be adding additional timers and sensors to amenities including toilet blocks and barbecue shelters.”
The Reducing Urban Glow project has been supported by the Australian Government under the Smart Cities and Suburbs program.
Project partners include Bundaberg Regional Council, Queensland Department of Environment and Science, Ergon Energy, Burnett Mary Regional Group, Central Queensland University, The Prince’s Trust Australia and Greenfleet, Bundaberg Tourism and Sea Turtle Alliance.
Source: Bundaberg Now