Bisbee and APS partner to light dangerous stretch of Highway 80 near Lavender Pit

Highway 80 near Bisbee’s Lavender Pit is getting 15 new LED streetlights along a 1.2-mile stretch. The city is investing $14,000 in the project, with help from Arizona Public Service.

Eight lights are already operating. APS is waiting for an Arizona Department of Transportation permit before installing the remaining seven. The project is expected to be finished by the end of August.

Residents had raised concerns about the dark roadway for more than a decade. Earlier efforts stalled over questions about who owned and maintained the lights.

The city purchased dark-sky compliant LED fixtures, which are fully shielded to keep light from shining upward. APS said safety was the main reason for its involvement and asked drivers to slow down and give crews room while work continues.