The long-anticipated Wedgwood Solar Lighting Project, in partnership with BKJ Solar, is approaching its final phase, marking an important milestone and bringing it close to completion.

All 10 initially proposed solar light fixtures have been successfully installed and are fully operational. They are strategically spaced throughout the subdivision, as indicated in the location list below.

These new lights provide consistent and reliable illumination along roadways, common areas, and key locations within the neighborhood. The addition of solar lighting enhances nighttime visibility, improves overall safety for residents, pedestrians, and visitors, and contributes to a more welcoming and well-maintained community appearance. The use of solar technology also reflects the Association’s commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure improvements.

As part of the installation process, some areas experienced temporary ground disturbance.

Final lawn grading and reseeding will be scheduled for the Spring season to ensure that weather and soil conditions are appropriate for proper seed germination and successful long- term lawn restoration. This approach will help protect the integrity of the landscaping and ensure that disturbed areas are returned to a uniform and healthy condition. The patience of residents is appreciated while these final restorative steps are deferred and optimal conditions are presented.

The cost per light was approximately $6,000, which includes the concrete foundation, installation and connection of the light and solar panel to battery. Of course, there are many other startup expenses related to such a large project. Phase 1 costs were approximately $80,000 for the first 10 lights fully installed. Studies were performed to identify the areas where lighting was most lacking. The location of each light must be exposed to direct sunlight several hours per day in order to gather and store the solar power. The solar light poles are 20 ft high; Wedgwood has hundreds of trees exceeding 20 ft. A street with a heavy or dense tree canopy is not a good candidate, so placement is critical to the success of the project.

Once the prospective sites for installation were identified, the homeowners at those locations were contacted to seek approval to install on/near their property. The lights were installed on the property side of the sidewalk, not in the median between the street and the sidewalk.

As you travel throughout the subdivision, you are encouraged to take note of this valuable improvement and the positive impact it has on our shared community spaces. Projects of this nature are the result of careful planning, budgeting, and resident support, and they reflect the Association’s ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance property values and overall quality of life within the neighborhood. This project represents a significant investment in the long-term improvements to our subdivision.

Locations of the newly installed solar lighting:

• 2900 block of Wintergreen

• 2500 block of Yorkshire

• Chadwick Dr and Cameo Ct

• 2300 block of Wedgwood Drive West

• Somerset & Cricket Ct

• Huntington & Heatherton

• 2000 block of Avon Dr

• 2200 block of Belfast

• Hampshire & Dresden

• 2600 block of Woodsage Dr

Residents interested in participating in the planning and discussion of potential future lighting expansions, or who have questions, feedback, or concerns regarding the existing solar lights, are strongly encouraged to share their input. Community involvement is essential to thoughtful decision-making and the continued success of future projects.

All residents are welcome to attend the monthly HOA Trustee Meetings, where they have the opportunity to stay informed, voice opinions, and engage directly with the Board on matters affecting the subdivision. See the monthly meeting schedule and location here.

For additional questions or to submit comments outside of the meeting, residents may contact the HOA via email at wedgwoodsubdivision@gmail.com