The installation of improved lighting in the Interstate 10 Deck Park Tunnel north of downtown Phoenix has reached a milestone with completion of work inside the westbound side of the tunnel.

So far Arizona Department of Transportation crews have installed more than 1,500 new LED lights by replacing fixtures dating back to when the tunnel opened to traffic in 1990.

ADOT will finish the ongoing $1.4 million project this summer when crews install additional replacement fixtures on the ceiling of the eastbound side of the tunnel. 

In addition to the improved lighting providing a safety enhancement, ADOT anticipates the use of LED lights in the tunnel will reduce energy consumption by more than 60 percent and produce more than $175,000 in annual energy savings.

The new LED bulbs produce an improved, brighter white light in the tunnel compared to the outdated yellow-toned high pressure sodium lights being replaced. Since LED lights last longer than the high pressure sodium bulbs, crews will not have to replace them as often.

As with the old lighting system, the improved LED tunnel lights will be set at appropriate transitioning levels during daylight and nighttime hours to allow a driver’s vision to adapt given outside lighting levels. For example, the system will run fewer lights at night because of lower nighttime light levels outside the tunnel.

Work on the project began in January. The I-10 tunnel extends approximately three-quarters-of-a-mile between Third Street and Third Avenue north of downtown Phoenix. The lighting project is being paid for with ADOT maintenance funds.

https://azdot.gov/adot-news/adot-finishes-first-half-i-10-tunnel-lighting-upgrade-phoenix