Pocono News Section

Williamsport Unveils "Lights On" Initiative

Williamsport Unveils "Lights On" Initiative - Monday, May 12, 2008 at 5:34PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 05:34pm EST
Williamsport, Lycoming County-

Williamsport city officials announced their “Lights On” initiative to brighten up unlit or dimly lit city streets.

Several people from the Second Street neighborhood came out to hear Mayor Gabe Campana speak about his newest method to deter crime. Neighbors here say they’ve been dealing with drug problems for years, and more recently, arsonists.

They like the idea of newer and better street lights, but say more needs to be done to prevent the fires.

Adam Roupp, a Second Street resident, explained, “Ninety percent of them have been lit from behind, either from breezeways, back porches, or something along those lines. So lighting up the front streets is a great idea, I mean I’m all for it, but i also want to see lights in the alleys. That’s got to be a priority, the alleys.”

People we spoke with also requested a bigger police presence in their neighborhoods.

City officials say there is money in the budget for the initiative. They are asking any citizens who feel they need better lighting in their neighborhoods to call city hall.