Cities across the U.S. are reimagining how they light their landmarks, roadways, and public structures, often with modern exterior LED lighting that is energy-efficient and visually impactful. From enhancing public safety to showcasing civic pride, outdoor lighting solutions are being deployed creatively and purposefully. Below are a few inspiring examples of how municipalities use LED technology to brighten and elevate their communities.

Exit 140 in Leeds, Alabama

Leeds, Alabama, home to high-traffic destinations like Buc-ee’s, Bass Pro Shops, and The Shops of Grand River, recently transformed Exit 140 with a full LED lighting upgrade. The area was known for poor visibility at night, which posed concerns for safety and navigation. In response, the city installed brand-new LED fixtures throughout the exit corridor. The result is a well-lit, more secure environment for travelers and shoppers alike. According to Leeds Mayor David Miller, every light now works and is fully LED, making the city one of the few in the state to achieve this level of outdoor lighting efficiency and reliability.

Lighting the Sky in Foley, Alabama

Foley, Alabama, has creatively approached outdoor lighting solutions by illuminating its water towers. As part of the “Light Up the Tanks” project, the city partnered with Riviera Utilities to install LED lighting on two prominent water towers. The aim was to restore lighting infrastructure lost during a repainting project and again spotlight Foley’s recognizable city logo. The effort not only enhances the city’s visual identity, especially for travelers heading to the nearby Gulf Coast but also improves energy efficiency. The new lighting system includes eight LED fixtures mounted on tank handrails, using less electricity than previous setups while delivering more targeted and vivid illumination.

Downtown Amarillo, Texas

In Amarillo, Texas, the city’s iconic Center City Gateway Arches recently underwent a complete restoration, capped by the addition of cutting-edge LED lighting systems. Originally installed in the early 2000s, the arches had weathered over time, prompting a significant refurbishment that included structural reinforcements and new powder coating to protect against the elements. The new LED fixtures now allow the arches to display programmable colors for holidays and local events, bringing fresh vibrancy to downtown Amarillo. From patriotic themes on July 4 to pink for cancer awareness, the arches serve as a historical monument and a dynamic communication tool, thanks to modern exterior LED lighting.

Why Exterior LEDs Are the Future

These real-world examples highlight how communities embrace LED technology to enhance everything from safety and infrastructure to identity and celebration. Exterior LED lighting offers numerous advantages over traditional fixtures, including lower maintenance costs, reduced energy consumption, and flexible lighting schemes. Whether it’s a highway exit, a municipal water tower, or a city gateway, outdoor lighting solutions play a critical role in how cities present themselves and serve their residents.

As municipalities and businesses modernize their outdoor environments, the shift to LED lighting indicates that more communities are preparing for the future. Click here to read the full articles, originally published by AL.com, Amarillo Globe News, and WBRC News.