Illuminating Success: How a Dallas Parking Garage Enhanced Safety and Achieved Rapid ROI with LED Retrofit
The Galleria Towers in Dallas, Texas recently underwent a remarkable transformation by upgrading the lighting in its expansive 4,500-space parking garage to energy-efficient LED technology. Initiated with the primary goal of bolstering security for Galleria tenants, who often felt vulnerable due to dark and dim areas under the previous fluorescent lighting system, the project achieved not only enhanced safety but also impressive energy savings.
Brighter, Safer, and More Efficient
Galleria Chief Engineer Cliff McBryde expressed satisfaction with the positive reception from the nearly 5,000 tenants. "Our tenants love the new, brighter lighting in the garage," said McBryde. The upgrade eradicated the dark, shadowy corners, fostering a sense of security among tenants as they walked, drove, and parked within the garage.
Energy-Efficient LED Fixtures
The new LED lighting fixtures at Galleria not only provided increased brightness but also demonstrated substantial energy savings. Consuming over 50 percent less wattage, the garage successfully reduced the number of fixtures by 20 percent, decreasing from approximately 2,600 to a more efficient 2,100. This dual approach led to a swift 14-month payback for the commercial property managed by CBRE.
Key Considerations for Your Parking Garage Lighting
1.Light Output Equals SafetyIncrease light levels to deter criminal activity.Enhance visibility for drivers and pedestrians.
2.Address Maintenance Costs and ChallengesOpt for long-life lighting to minimize regular maintenance.Reduce the need for disruptive fixture changes in the garage.
3.Tap into Low-Hanging Fruit: Energy SavingsLeverage the extended burn time of parking garage lights for enhanced energy efficiency.Consider a switch to LED for significant and immediate savings.
4.Attract Prospective Tenants with Quality LightingWell-lit, safe parking garages serve as a key differentiator for potential tenants.Attention to parking garage quality reflects positively on the overall building.
5.Optimize Light Fixture Installation for Maximum OutputEnsure fixtures are not installed flush to the ceiling between beams.Drop fixtures to align with the bottoms of ceiling beams for better light spread and reduced energy consumption.
The Galleria's success story underscores the importance of strategic lighting upgrades in parking garages. By prioritizing safety, energy efficiency, and a focus on prospective tenants, property managers can achieve a remarkable transformation that not only enhances security but also contributes to substantial cost savings and rapid return on investment.