The city of Portland is seeking proposals to conduct a comprehensive assessment of its street lighting system and nighttime safety conditions. The project budget is capped at $300,000.
The city’s current lighting system faces challenges from outdated technology and limited compatibility between systems. The assessment will provide a foundation for a more secure, efficient and centrally managed system.
According to the city’s 2025 Annual Crash Report, nearly two-thirds (63%) of serious injury and fatal crashes occurred in the evening or at night, when visibility is lower.
The planned assessment will evaluate nighttime safety, document existing lighting equipment and develop a plan to modernize the system.
“This assessment is a vital component of our ongoing commitment to improving the safety and accessibility of our streets for everyone — pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users and motorists alike,” said Mayor Mark Dion.
“By creating a data-driven, long-term plan, we aim to not only address current infrastructure needs but also to ensure our street lighting supports our Vision Zero goals and sustainability standards for years to come,” he added.
The planned assessment follows the completion of several traffic calming and pedestrian safety assessments along Deering Avenue and surrounding streets in response to high pedestrian volume, recent crash history and community feedback, the city said in a separate announcement.
In collaboration with the Maine Department of Transportation, the city installed five speed bumps and one raised pedestrian crosswalk in that neighborhood. It also reconstructed 60 ADA-compliant curb ramps on Deering Avenue and 30 ADA ramps on Woodford Street.
More information
The selected consultant will be expected to produce a Comprehensive Street Lighting Master Plan that integrates engineering, technology and maintenance best practices.
Interested firms are invited to submit a formal proposal by the end of Wednesday, Oct. 21; more information is available via the city’s Purchasing Office.
