Seeing is believing
And helping people see better when they are driving on the Don Valley Parkway and the Allan Expressway was one of the goals of a recently completed lighting project on those two major roads in Toronto.

More than 25 years ago, the lighting system on the Don Valley Parkway was remodeled using low-pressure sodium lights. As time went on, it became clear that this system was becoming increasingly difficult to maintain with the frequent failure of lamps and circuits. The result was an increase in maintenance costs and traffic disruptions when repairs were carried out.

That’s when the City began looking at alternative lighting options.

In the early 1990s, the City began replacing the old system with high-mast, high-pressure sodium lighting for several reasons. First, the cost of replacing the new lamps when they burn out is significantly less than the old lamps. Plus, the new lamps last about four times longer than the lamps used in the old system.

While saving money is important, the issue of safety is critical. The new lighting system improves the visibility of drivers, resulting in better safety conditions.

So, next time you’re out on the DVP or Allan Expressway, DON’T look up. Just know that the City has taken steps to improve safety on our roads and save some money at the same time.