Street Lighting Initiative
The City of West Lafayette’s Development Department is excited to share an update on the Street Lighting Initiative, a project aimed at improving visibility, safety, and neighborhood character through new, community-informed lighting designs.
On October 15, 2025, the Department released the Street Lighting Initiative Request for Proposals (RFP) at the West Lafayette Redevelopment Commission meeting. The RFP was developed with guidance from our selected engineering partner, VS Engineering, and shaped by valuable feedback from neighborhood residents. You can view the full RFP at westlafayette.in.gov/services/bid-opportunities
Community Input
This initiative was built from the ground up with neighborhood voices. In August 2025, only residents living along Robinson Street and Indian Trail Drive were invited to participate in targeted surveys to help guide decisions on lighting type, fixture design, and color temperature.
The surveys were open August 18 – September 1 with links distributed exclusively to these neighborhoods through door-to-door flyers and tailored Nextdoor posts.
On Robinson Street, a strong majority (70%) favored upgraded pendant-style lights with expanded coverage, and 52% preferred a neutral light temperature.
On Indian Trail Drive, 53% supported expanded pendant lighting, while 54% preferred a warmer light to maintain neighborhood character
This data-driven and locally informed approach ensures that lighting improvements reflect the unique context and preferences of each corridor.
Timeline & Next Steps
- August–September 2025: Community surveys conducted via targeted neighborhood outreach.
- October 2025: RFP released with community-informed specifications; proposals invited from qualified lighting contractors.
- Winter 2025: Review and selection of vendor, and engineering design refinements.
- Summer 2026: Installation anticipated to begin, pending material lead times and weather.
Why We’re Moving Forward
Lighting plays a powerful role in how our neighborhoods feel after dark, impacting walkability, safety, and sense of place. Through this initiative, West Lafayette is investing in lighting that enhances visibility and comfort while being energy-efficient, context-sensitive, and respectful of neighborhood aesthetics.
This report provides a transparent look at the community feedback and technical considerations that informed the City’s decisions on fixture type, coverage, and implementation. Together, these next steps mark continued progress toward a safer, more connected, and welcoming West Lafayette.