Irving residents are raising concerns about inadequate street lighting in their neighborhoods, particularly along William D. Hayes. During the City Council meeting on January 16, 2025, community member Jimmy Blue highlighted the stark contrast in lighting between different sections of the street. He noted that while new poles and lights have been installed, the spacing leaves significant gaps, with some areas requiring a walk of nearly a football field to reach a light.

Blue pointed out that the lighting situation is particularly poor for pedestrians near Northgate, where only four poles are present compared to eleven on a similarly sized stretch of Walnut Hill. He emphasized the safety risks this poses for residents who rely on these streets for walking, urging the council to address the issue and ensure equitable lighting for all neighborhoods.

In addition to the lighting concerns, Jimmy Baloo, president of the Friends of the Irving Museums Organization, announced an upcoming general meeting scheduled for January 23, from 6 PM to 8 PM. The meeting will coincide with the opening of the Japanese War Bridal exhibit at the Irving Arts Archives and Museum, inviting community members to engage with local cultural initiatives.

The discussions from the meeting underscore the importance of addressing public safety concerns while also promoting community involvement in local events. As residents advocate for better street lighting, the city council faces the challenge of ensuring all neighborhoods receive equal attention and resources.