Packers install new lights at Lambeau Field
Richard RymanGREEN BAY – Green Bay Packers fans will see Lambeau Field's new turf better this year because of LED field lights installed Wednesday.
The Packers replaced the lights installed when Lambeau Field was renovated in 2003 with Musco Lighting LED lights that will be brighter and less expensive to operate. The new fixtures will cut kilowatts used by 60 percent. They are expected to last several decades.
The Packers also are in the process of replacing Lambeau Field's turf. They are switching from GrassMaster to SISGrass, but the surface, which includes grass interwoven with synthetic fibers, is essentially the same.
The difference in lighting might be subtle, but fans could notice brighter, more vibrant colors on the field and less light coming into the stands. Television viewers will notice better quality in slow-motion replays because the LED lights eliminate flicker, said Aaron Popkey, Packers director of public affairs.
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Cost of the new lights was not disclosed, but Popkey said it was significant.
Parts for the previous lights were becoming costly and hard to find, Popkey said. Those lights were removed over the last several weeks while the new fixtures were assembled in the parking lots south of the stadium. On Wednesday, a helicopter delivered the fixtures to the light stands in a surprisingly fast and smooth operation.
Configuration of the 296 light fixtures on 32 brackets was determined at the factory using stadium schematics and computer design.
"It will require very little adjustment on site," Popkey said.
The new lights can be dimmed for special events and can provide custom theatrics.
A number of stadiums and arenas have switched to LED lighting, including Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium and New England's Gillette Stadium in the NFL.