Morgantown Residents Petition Over LED Streetlights

Citizens in the First Ward are requesting changes to address light intrusion from new LED fixtures.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in City Hall

Isometric editorial illustration of a modern street lamp casting a pool of light on a sidewalk, representing urban infrastructure concerns. — Morgantown residents in the First Ward have petitioned the city to adjust new LED streetlights due to concerns over excessive light intrusion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you support prioritizing energy-efficient city infrastructure over potential light intrusion into residential neighborhoods?

Residents of the First Ward in Morgantown have launched a petition regarding new LED streetlights that are causing unwanted light intrusion into their homes. The city is currently working with FirstEnergy to find solutions for the affected areas.

Why it matters

The city implemented the LED initiative to cut energy costs and improve nighttime visibility, but the transition has created unforeseen lighting issues for some households. Balancing these infrastructure goals with resident comfort remains a priority for local officials and the power provider.

Morgantown maintains a total of 1,700 streetlights, with the current LED program generating annual savings of $50,000 to $60,000. Each individual light pole contributes to these efficiency gains with monthly savings of $2 to $3.

The players

FirstEnergy

This electric utility company provides power to the Morgantown area and is coordinating with the city to manage the lighting infrastructure.

The details

Crews began replacing individual burned-out bulbs with LED lamps last year before shifting to a full-block replacement strategy this year to ensure uniform lighting. The city and FirstEnergy are now coordinating to address residential complaints that the brightness of the new LEDs is excessive.

Crews began the initial replacement of burned-out bulbs in 2025.
Crews initiated the neighborhood LED replacement program in 2026.

Political Context

The petition highlights growing citizen pushback against the implementation of the city of Morgantown LED streetlight transition program. Opponents argue that while energy savings are beneficial, the immediate quality-of-life impact on residents requires a more flexible approach to lighting placement.

Residents in the First Ward may see changes to their local street lighting as the city and utility provider evaluate solutions for light intrusion. While the program currently yields significant city-wide energy savings, specific household impacts depend on the adjustments made to nearby light poles.

The takeaway

While the transition to LED technology offers long-term financial and maintenance advantages for the city, individual residential experiences can vary significantly. Residents concerned about lighting in their neighborhoods should engage with the ongoing petition to ensure their specific light intrusion issues are documented.