The City of Brighton and two city employees have been recognized with awards from the Colorado Chapter of the American Public Works Association.
Brighton received the 2024 sustainability award in the medium community division for the city's Streetlight LED Conversion Project, while Joseph Leon, infrastructure & development construction manager, was awarded 2024 Professional Manager of the Year – Administrative Management, and Joseph Huerta, traffic signal supervisor, was named 2024 Outstanding Public Works Employee.
The City of Brighton’s ambitious Streetlight LED Conversion Project is a collaborative effort between the sustainability and public works departments, in partnership with United Power. This large-scale initiative replaces traditional streetlights with energy-efficient LEDs throughout the city. Brighton Sustainability Coordinator Traci McLean began organizing the project in 2023 due to the opportunity it presented to utilize partnerships that advance sustainability throughout the community.
“This project demonstrates a creative use of resources that will drive progress towards achieving the energy efficiency and air quality goals included in the recently adopted 2024 Sustainability Plan,” McLean said. “It’s very exciting to see it come to fruition.”
The Streetlight LED Conversion Project is divided into three phases with Phase I already complete. More than 2,400 lights are expected to be replaced across the community by the time all phases are finished. LED luminaires reduce average energy consumption by 45-55 percent, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions. These lights last over 20 years, more than double the existing technology that requires a lamp or ballast replacement every 7-10 years. This project also qualifies for use of undergrounding funds through a franchise agreement with United Power, resulting in no impact to the city’s capital project fund.
“Brighton’s transition to energy-efficient LEDs demonstrates forward-thinking urban planning, contributing to environmental stewardship,” said Greg Labrie, director of public works. “The project involved cooperation between city departments, United Power, businesses, and citizens, showcasing effective partnerships. The improved safety, cost savings, and enhanced aesthetics benefit residents, making this initiative a model for other municipalities.”
Leon’s dedication and performance as a team leader were recognized when he was promoted to the position of construction and infrastructure manager in June 2019. In this role, Leon assumed a critical leadership position overseeing four construction inspectors and managing all aspects of new development within the city. His responsibilities encompass a broad range of tasks, including the review and issuance of construction permits in collaboration with the community development department, and the inspection of newly installed infrastructure, such as roadways, traffic signals, and utilities.
“Joseph Leon deserves to be Professional Manager of the Year due to his exemplary leadership as construction and infrastructure manager, where he effectively oversees new development and ensures high-quality infrastructure projects,” said Labrie. “His proactive approach, including the integration of advanced construction management techniques and his efficient handling of permits and inspections, significantly enhances operational effectiveness.”
Huerta, a dedicated and accomplished member of the City of Brighton's public works department, has made significant contributions to the community since he joined the city in April 2006. In November 2014, Huerta achieved a significant milestone in his career by becoming signal crew leader. His ability to operate a wide range of equipment makes him an invaluable asset to the public works department. His expertise as an experienced equipment operator, combined with his technical knowledge, allows him to handle various tasks and challenges with ease and efficiency.
“Joseph Huerta deserves recognition as Outstanding Public Works Employee due to his timely completion of projects, expertise in sustainable solutions, and exceptional customer service,” said Labrie. “Joseph’s unwavering ‘can-do’ spirit shines through even in challenging situations. His resilience, proactive approach, and commitment to finding solutions make him an outstanding public works employee.”