In 2024, a study by Manatee County and Florida Power & Light (FPL) found a shortfall of over 9,000 streetlights. With 90% of the county dark at nightand the worstlit areas facing the highest crime rates concerns about safety and quality of life grew urgent.
The Light Up Manatee initiative reflects more than just an infrastructure upgrade — it’s a model for how clean technology and community collaboration can create safer, more connected neighborhoods. By installing 148 solar-powered Streetleaf lights across under-lit zones, Manatee County not only reduced crime and collisions but also saved an estimated $769,600 in infrastructure costs. The result is a community that feels safer, more walkable, and proud of its progress toward sustainability.
Looking ahead, Streetleaf continues to partner with municipalities across Florida to extend these results county-wide — demonstrating that reliable light and renewable power can work hand-in-hand to enhance public safety and reduce environmental impact. For local governments seeking a scalable, cost-efficient lighting solution, Light Up Manatee stands as proof that the future of public lighting is bright, solar, and community-driven.
