Brighten Baltimore
Currently there is a campaign to "Brighten Baltimore" by illuminating some of
the prominent buildings in the downtown section. This campaign is being
promoted by Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) as a way to increase economic
activity. The latest addition to this effort is to have 10 Xenon light beams
project outward from the top of the World Trade Center in downtown Baltimore
starting on Jan. 1st.
The owners of the building (Maryland Port Commission)
recently mentioned that local astronomers and naturalist protests to the lights
"come as somewhat of a surprise to us". A BGE spokesperson also stated that
their "Brighten Baltimore" campaign did not consider the issue of light
pollution.
The Maryland Port Commission is going to take a look at the complaints.
Obviously, much more work lies ahead, but at least the local authorities now
are aware of the issue. The battle continues ....
Forrest Hamilton
hamilton@stsci.edu
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