H (Home Region)
My neighborhood is Umyeon-dong in Seocho-gu, Seoul. It is a residential area where apartment complexes, houses, and parks coexist. Overall, the environment is quiet, pleasant, and suitable for living. There are many parks and walking trails, making it a comfortable place for residents. However, some alleys and streets near residential areas do not have enough streetlights. As a result, the roads become quite dark at night, and some residents feel uncomfortable or unsafe when walking outside.
O (Objective & Observation)
One of the main problems in my neighborhood is the lack of sufficient street lighting in certain alleys and walking paths. Some streetlights are too far apart, while others provide weak lighting. Because of this, it is difficult for people to see the road clearly at night. Residents often feel worried about their safety when walking in these areas. In addition, dark and poorly lit spaces discourage people from using public spaces and can make the neighborhood feel less active and welcoming. According to a local survey, about 65% of residents reported feeling uncomfortable because of the darkness at night.
P (Plan)
To solve this problem, I propose installing additional eco-friendly LED streetlights and pedestrian lights in areas where lighting is insufficient. Priority should be given to places that many residents use, such as alley entrances, crosswalks, and park trails. Solar-powered streetlights can also be introduced to reduce electricity consumption and support environmental sustainability. In addition, reflective signs and ground guide lights can be installed to improve visibility and help pedestrians move more safely at night.
E (Evaluation & Evidence)
There is evidence that improving street lighting can make neighborhoods safer and more comfortable. In similar projects, nighttime walking satisfaction increased significantly after additional LED lighting was installed. For example, satisfaction rates rose from 57% to 81%, while crime rates in improved areas decreased by approximately 23%. Therefore, I believe that enhancing street lighting in Umyeon-dong would create a safer walking environment, reduce concerns about crime, improve residents’ sense of security, and contribute to a brighter and more vibrant community.
