Ketchikan, Alaska: A Community Pilot for Low Pressure Sodium Street Lighting
On April 3, 2026, the city of Ketchikan enabled three Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) streetlights supplied by Glow Object as part of a community-led lighting pilot supported by the Soft Lights Foundation.
The project replaced harsh cool-white LED streetlights with soft amber LPS lighting featuring virtually no blue light emission. Residents reported that the new lighting felt softer, less intrusive, and more comfortable during snow and rain conditions.
Community Response
Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Residents reported improved nighttime comfort and better sleep after the installation.
“All the neighbors love them… people who came to see them absolutely love them and want all the lights to go back to this.”
— Ketchikan resident, April 2026
The before-and-after photos show a dramatic reduction in glare, reflected brightness, and skyglow — while still maintaining full roadway visibility.
Key Outcomes
- Reduced glare and reflected brightness on wet pavement
- Near-zero blue light emission — minimal impact on circadian rhythms
- Improved comfort during snow and rain conditions
- Reduced skyglow and light pollution
- Maintained roadway visibility and safety
About This Pilot
This pilot demonstrates how low-blue-spectrum lighting can improve nighttime comfort, reduce visual harshness, and create a calmer street environment for residential communities.
Glow Object supplied the LPS lamps, ballasts, and components used in this installation.
Learn more about Glow Object or explore our LPS lighting products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the Low Pressure Sodium lighting pilot conducted?
The pilot was conducted in Ketchikan, Alaska.
When were the LPS streetlights enabled?
The three Low Pressure Sodium streetlights were enabled on April 3, 2026.
Who supported the Ketchikan lighting pilot?
The community-led pilot was supported by the Soft Lights Foundation.
Who supplied the lighting?
Glow Object supplied the LPS lamps, ballasts, and components used in the installation.
How did residents respond to the new lighting?
Residents reported that the LPS lighting felt softer, less intrusive, and more comfortable, particularly during snow and rain conditions.
Related Articles
- Light Pollution & Dark Sky Impact
- Why Luminance Density is Import to Visual Comfort
- LPS Spectral Power Distribution (SPD) Explained
- What We Lost When We Replaced Low-Pressure Sodium with LED Streetlights
- Low Pressure Sodium Lighting and Its Benefits for Sea Turtle Conservation
References
- Soft Lights Foundation
- Glow Object — Low Pressure Sodium (LPS/SOX) lighting products and components
Last Updated: August 2026
This article is part of the Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Lighting Knowledge Hub, a technical resource covering the physics, engineering, efficiency, environmental impact, and specialized applications of Low Pressure Sodium (SOX) lighting systems.