Albuquerque Outdoor Lighting Ordinance
Project Type
Dark Sky, Policy
Location
Albuquerque, NM
Year
2023
Team
City of Albuquerque
Transforming Albuquerque’s Nighttime Environment.
In 2023, Clanton & Associates partnered with the City of Albuquerque to modernize its outdoor lighting ordinance, addressing concerns about high-glare, excessively bright lighting prevalent throughout the city. By prioritizing community engagement and education, the updated ordinance sets a new standard for safer, more sustainable lighting practices, improving the nighttime environment for both residents and visitors.
Clanton & Associates conducted on-site evaluations of Albuquerque’s existing outdoor lighting conditions and engaged with a diverse group of stakeholders to identify key concerns and priorities. To build a shared understanding, the team hosted a "Lighting 101" workshop for city staff and community members, covering national lighting standards and best practices. This collaborative approach informed the development of a draft ordinance that reduces glare, promotes appropriately scaled lighting, and enhances overall safety and sustainability.
The updated ordinance received swift approval from the Albuquerque City Council on its first vote, reflecting the effectiveness of the stakeholder-driven process. Clanton & Associates continues to assist city staff with implementing the code, offering guidance on plan reviews and enforcement strategies to ensure lasting success. This project exemplifies how thoughtful design and community involvement can lead to meaningful improvements in urban lighting.
