Following the installation of new lights atop Ford Field last year, several residents have complained that they are too bright, and nearly 900 have signed a petition on Change.org to fix the issue.
Almost 900 people have signed https://t.co/FWkLCMUzKz petitiion to turn off new roof lights at Ford Field. Others say "Turn 'em up!" @WWJ950 pic.twitter.com/EgYbfPAsOP
— Mike Campbell (@reportermikec) February 10, 2017
This is what the petition reads:
“Light pollution can have an adverse impact on the environment, affecting everything from wildlife behavior to human health. Whereas nighttime urban lighting can benefit safety and security, this stadium’s unshielded purple glow serves no purpose. According to the General Illumination Standard in the Detroit Zoning Ordinance, Sec. 61-14-278, “All reasonable measures shall be taken to ensure that the off-site spillover of light and nightglow are minimized to the greatest extent possible.” Ford Field is not adhering to this Standard and its excess use of rooftop lighting should be enforced.”
Meanwhile, the Lions have issued an official response via email:
“The Lions responded to an interview request with an e-mailed statement: “Ford Field followed municipal protocol when acquiring all necessary permits to install and operate new LED lighting on the exterior of the stadium in 2016 and are in compliance with City of Detroit lighting ordinances.
Additionally, we have received positive feedback from law enforcement personnel, nearby businesses and city residents about improved safety. Our belief is that light emanating from Ford Field, along with other nearby sports and entertainment venues, contributes to a more vibrant atmosphere in downtown Detroit.”
City officials by Thursday afternoon had not answered Free Press inquiries into whether they believe the night glow provision of their ordinance applies to Ford Field or if the Lions received a waiver of the zoning code provision.
