GARDEN CITY, NY – Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi today announced that all 1,600 County-operated intersections will now have more energy-efficient Light Emitting Diode (LED) traffic signals. The $7.5 million improvement project will also include the installation of new countdown timers at all pedestrian crossing signals.

"Nassau County always likes to lead by example, and using this kind of smart energy is a no-brainer as we look for ways to make the County the greenest in the nation," said County Executive Suozzi. "This project will upgrade and improve the county's infrastructure, keep both drivers and pedestrians safe, and reduce operating costs - all while protecting the environment. It is an important step to make in order for the County to become more sustainable."

The current incandescent-bulb traffic signals will be upgraded with LED bulbs starting in November, in order to reduce energy use and save an estimated $1 million year in operating costs. The new signals are rated for almost 10 years, allowing for more efficient use of resources and will save on both replacement and disposal costs. Additionally, the new bulbs are much brighter than standard bulbs, which will improve driver safety.

"The use of energy efficient LED traffic signals is just one of Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi's visions for a brighter future that will save county taxpayers money through lower energy and maintenance costs, and contribute to cleaner air by reducing energy use," said Richard M. Kessel, president and chief executive officer, New York Power Authority. "When counties like Nassau, and cities, towns and villages statewide work with NYPA to be more energy-savvy, we are helping to achieve Governor Paterson's '45 by 15' plan for 45 percent of the state's energy needs to be met by clean energy sources and improved energy efficiency by 2015."

The new pedestrian countdown timers will display the number of seconds remaining in crossing time before the “Don’t Walk” symbol is displayed.