Section: Education

CITY REPLACES 205 DAMAGED

SCHOOL ZONE FLASHING BEACONS

82 SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE NEW SOLAR-POWERED SAFETY DEVICES

NEW ORLEANS, LA (September 16, 2008) – Today, the City’s Department of Public Works announces the beginning of the replacement of 205 school zone flashing beacons damaged by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita at 82 private and public schools. The new flashing beacons will be powered by solar panels, reducing their energy consumption and saving money.

“The safety of our children is the most important motivator behind this project. Flashing beacons alert drivers that they must slow down and pay attention for any children crossing the roadway,” said Robert Mendoza, Director of Public Works. “Switching to LED technology and utilizing solar power will reduce annual maintenance and operational costs.”

As part of the installation, flashing beacon foundations that are damaged or missing will be replaced with a new concrete foundation. Following a seven day curing period, crews will install the flashing beacon unit, including the new solar panels. Typically, the flashing beacons will be programmed to flash from 7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. each weekday morning and 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. each weekday afternoon. In addition, the beacons will be activated during special school events occurring outside of normal school hours.

The estimated $1.4 million project is expected to be completed by early 2009. Earlier this month, crews began installing the beacons at open schools and will have those beacons operational by the end of October.

“Getting the beacons working at open schools is our first priority. Beacons located at closed schools are being cross checked against the Recovery School District Master Plan and we are working with the other school districts on their future plans as well,” said Mendoza.

Developed by Carmanah Technologies Corporation, a leading provider of energy-efficient technologies, the school zone flashing beacons will be installed by Jack B. Harper Contractor, Inc., who was selected for the contract through the City’s public-bid process. MWH, a global provider of environmental engineering, strategic consulting and construction services, will provide project management services, with the primary responsibility of ensuring the flashing beacons are installed according to City standards and specifications, and to address citizen concerns.

For more information dial 311 or call (504) 658-2299. To view a list of school zones visit www.cityofno.com