Pell City officials approve plan to replace failing lights on I-20 exits

Pell City leaders have authorized a project to modernize the lighting infrastructure at two major exits along Interstate 20. The city will replace aging equipment with new technology to improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians near commercial zones.

The need for the upgrade became apparent as the current system, installed in 2002, began to fail. City Manager Tim Kurzejeski stated that his street department could no longer maintain the outdated fixtures effectively. Over time, lights at exits 156 and 158 turned off one after another, leaving the areas dark and raising safety concerns for motorists.

In response, the city classified the repair as a priority project. Kurzejeski explained that the team researched the issue and decided to restore the exits to their original intended condition. "We did some research on it, and kind of a priority project we put in place to get both of our exits lit back up the way they were intended," he said.

The decision also reflects the economic growth in the area. Both exits serve high-traffic commercial developments, including gas stations, shops, and restaurants. Kurzejeski noted that well-lit areas help people feel safe enough to stop and spend money. "Both the exits are high traffic due to commercial development. We’ve had a lot of commercial development at these exits so, the visual, being able to see, the safety for the people that are getting on and of the exits going to some of these commercial areas was kind of a priority we placed," he said.

The approved plan calls for the installation of 98 new light heads across the two exits. The project has received necessary approvals from the Alabama Department of Transportation and Alabama Power. Kurzejeski described the effort as a major upgrade that requires coordination among multiple agencies to restore the original scope of the lighting system.

City officials are currently reviewing agreements and contracts to finalize the details of the work. As of now, no specific start date or completion timeline has been announced. The city is in the process of securing the final legal documents before construction can begin.