A small, state-supported change to traffic light technology will mean big savings for dozens of municipalities in north-central Pennsylvania, the Department of Community and Economic Development announced this week.

SEDA-Council of Governments, a development agency serving 11 counties in north-central Pennsylvania, received a $180,000 grant to help 60, mostly small and rural, municipalities cover the costs associated with having to convert 200 traffic lights to light emitting diode (LED), energy-savings technology.

LED devices require less maintenance, are more visible, and provide energy savings that should pay for the changeover within three years. The process is expected to be completed by mid-2009.

The grant, from Pennsylvania's Shared Municipal Services Program helps to promote cooperation among municipalities and encourages more efficient and effective delivery of municipal services. Since 2003, the program has awarded $7.6 million.

For additional information on funding sources available to Pennsylvania communities, visit www.NewPA.com or call 1-866-466-3972.

3/28/2008