I’m trying to be open-minded about the City’s Gas-light replacement proposal. However, your article exposes an unusual and incomplete process that has resulted in a dubious and very flawed proposal.
If you compare the proposed LED fixtures to our existing original historic fixtures, you will see that the proposed fixture type is entirely different from our original gaslight fixtures in size, shape, and design characteristics. The proposed fixtures are of lower quality construction, and unfortunately also a sort of ersatz “Colonial style” derived from the form of much older candle or oil lamps.
That is quite different than our gas fueled fixtures that were specifically designed for what was then the “new age” of natural gas fueled lighting.
I shall also note there is no indication that the local Historic Districts, or anyone with actual experience and education in Historic Preservation was involved in this selection process and proposal. The referenced “Report” document is an incomplete effort and unattributed, but appears to be done by the Gama company, the manufacturer of this fixture.
This is an unusual practice, as these sorts of changes to important historic elements should involve a more complete and thoughtful search for alternatives.
This should be expected as it would assure the community that proposed replacements of significant historic features in our neighborhoods are the best fit in historic design compatibility, lighting quality (and quantity), and durability.
Lacking any of the above, disqualifies the proposed LED street lamps as NOT appropriate to our streetscapes, both in Historic Districts and those not officially designated as such.
The ‘de-gassing’ of our historic lighting is a laudable and reasonable objective, but there must be a more diligent process to identify better options that either replicate the actual gas fixtures, or better yet …retrofit what we have with efficient electric illumination that will also last much longer than what has been proposed.
Sincerely,
Robert Fizek, Arch.
Member, Newton Highlands Area Council