Letter to the Editor: Stadium Lights Questions Answered

The Peninsula Stadium Lights Steering Committee worked diligently with the school district for a year to raise funds for stadium lights at . During that time, opponents of the project were very vocal, but the district asked the committee to remain silent and not respond. As a result, many inaccurate statements about the project went unanswered. This letter clarifies that misinformation and explains what this project will provide to the high school and the community.

1. Friday night football games only. At all times the lights were intended only for use during Peninsula home football games on five to seven Friday nights in the fall from approximately 7 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.
2. Minimal light glare. The proposed lighting is the most sophisticated lighting on the market in terms of light spill and glare control and will cause minimal glare in the sky.
3. Traffic and parking concerns. The project does not require any expansion in the capacity of the stadium or the already approved parking options.
4. Noise control from the stadium. For many years, neighbors have complained about the sound system at Peninsula. The committee voluntarily agreed to include a new sound system along with the lights.
5. Costs associated with the project. All money associated with this project is from private donations. At no point will money for this project come from the district or be taken away from our teachers, staff, or administration.
6. Revenue to the school and Peninsula businesses. Other South Bay schools with lights generate approximately $50,000 to $70,000 per year for their schools. It is our hope to generate that same revenue for Peninsula.

The lights will be a “gift” to the school and the community, generating funds and bringing the community together.

— The Stadium Lights Steering Committee

Editor's Note: This guest commentary, submitted by The Stadium Lights Steering Committee, also appeared in the Palos Verdes Peninsula News on Thursday, Sept. 15.