Solar Pathway & Bollard Lighting for Public Trails

A Safer, Brighter, and More Sustainable Community

Johns Creek, a community in North Fulton County, is known for its clean parks, welcoming neighborhoods, and long-term focus on sustainability. When city planners looked for ways to improve trail safety at night, they wanted something efficient, attractive, and environmentally friendly.

After exploring several options, the city chose Beyond Solar to provide solar bollard lights and solar pathway lighting for Creekside Trail. The solution offered consistent illumination, low maintenance, and no ongoing energy cost; all while keeping the natural beauty of the trail intact.

Explore systems: Solar Pathway Lights | Titan Solar Bollard Lights

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Project Overview

 

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The Challenge

Before this Georgia solar lighting project, many sections of the Creekside Trail were difficult to use at night. The path passed through shaded areas where older fixtures had stopped working, leaving long stretches dark. Families and joggers often avoided the trail after sunset, and maintenance costs were becoming a concern.

Running traditional electrical lighting would have required trenching and conduit work estimated at over $25,000 for just half a mile. The city wanted to upgrade the trail lighting without damaging landscaping or increasing utility bills.

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The Solution: Beyond Solar Bollard Pathway Lighting

Beyond Solar supplied the Titan Series solar bollard lights, compact fixtures designed specifically for pathways, greenways, and park trails. Each light runs independently and stores solar power during the day for use at night.

Key Features Implemented:

• Lights placed 20 feet apart for even illumination

• Long-lasting LiFePO₄ batteries that stay charged through cloudy weather

• Downlight design to direct light to the trail and avoid glare

• Durable, corrosion-resistant construction suited for Georgia’s humidity

• Automatic dusk-to-dawn operation requiring no manual control

The entire system was installed directly into the ground using concrete anchors. There was no need for trenching or wiring, which kept installation fast and minimally invasive.

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Implementation

Total Project Time: 3 days, including preparation and quality checks.

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Results

Better Safety and Visibility
Even lighting made the trail comfortable to use after dark. Families, runners, and cyclists could now enjoy evening walks safely.

No Energy Bills
Because the system operates completely off-grid, the city eliminated monthly power costs and avoided future utility interruptions.

Environmental Benefits
This Georgia solar lighting project saves more than four tons of carbon emissions every year, similar to planting about 180 trees.

Lower Installation Cost
By skipping trenching and wiring, Johns Creek saved more than $30,000 in upfront expenses.

Community Response
Within two months, trail use increased by nearly 40 percent. Residents shared positive feedback about how much brighter and safer the paths felt.

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Client Feedback

“The difference is night and day. Our trails are safer and more welcoming for residents.” - Public Works Director, City of Johns Creek

“Installation was simple and clean. No permits or wiring were needed, which made it ideal for city projects.” - Project Manager, Beyond Solar Partner Contractor

“People noticed the change right away. The trail feels safe again, and the lights blend beautifully with the landscape.” - HOA Representative, Johns Creek

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Lessons for Other Georgia Municipalities

The Johns Creek project shows that solar pathway lighting can work in busy urban areas as effectively as in remote spaces. It offers long-term savings, easy installation, and dependable performance.

Benefits Cities Can Expect:

• Scalable setup that allows new fixtures to be added easily

• Return on investment in three to five years

• Minimal maintenance, usually only battery replacement after several years

• Strong community support and visible improvement in safety

Get Started:  Get a Quote | Where to Buy

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People Also Ask

How do solar bollard lights perform in Georgia’s humid climate?
They are IP65 rated and corrosion-resistant, built to withstand Georgia weather.

How long do solar bollard pathway lights last?
Most fixtures last between 10 and 15 years, and the batteries typically last 5 to 7 years.

Do they work under trees or partial shade?
Yes. They charge under filtered sunlight and provide several nights of lighting.

Can cities save money with solar lighting?
Yes. Most projects pay for themselves within a few years and operate for decades without energy costs.

Are the lights Dark Sky compliant?
Yes. The Titan design directs all light downward to prevent glare and sky glow.

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Explore Beyond Solar Product Families

Titan Solar Bollard Lights - Durable, vandal-resistant lights for parks and trails.
Solar Pathway Systems - Expandable solutions for long public walkways.
Capella Flood and Wall Packs - Area lighting for entrances and trailheads.
Plantation Post-Top Lights - Decorative fixtures for plazas and community spaces.

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FAQs

1. How long does it take to install solar pathway lights?
   Typically two to three days per mile of trail, depending on terrain.
   

2. Can the bollard lights include motion sensors?
   Yes. Motion-activated dimming can extend battery life.
   

3. Do they stay on during power outages?
   Yes. They operate fully off-grid and are unaffected by outages.
   

4. What maintenance is needed?
   Occasional cleaning and battery replacement every 5 to 7 years.
   

5. Are the lights ADA compliant?
   Yes. Proper spacing ensures accessibility and consistent visibility.
   

6. Can they connect to smart controls?
   Optional remote monitoring and scheduling systems are available.
   

7. Do they improve property value?
   Better lighting improves safety perception and adds long-term appeal.
   

8. Are there incentives for Georgia cities?
   Yes. Municipal energy grants and federal solar credits can support future Georgia solar lighting projects.