Streetlights seem like they should be a benign topic. They’re unremarkable, familiar fixtures that are part of the backdrop of everyday urban life. But lately, they’ve been a contentious topic for some Houstonians. This report analyzes the location of Houston’s streetlights to determine which areas have the highest concentration of street lights and which have the lowest. It’s an important question because for many, street lights are a critical amenity. They make residents feel safer and more comfortable. But for some, they can be considered a nuisance or even a tool for surveillance.
Photo: Avital Pinnick
