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"We aren't just reaching for the stars; we're saving money, protecting wildlife, and preserving the nostalgic, small-town character that makes Vermilion our Beloved Small Town on a Great Lake."
50–70%
Estimated reduction in streetlighting costs
#1
Potential to achieve prestigious dark sky certification
$3.3B
Lost annually in the U.S from wasted outdoor lighting
THE OPPORTUNITY
A Lake Erie First
Sherod Park already draws stargazers from Toledo, Columbus and Cleveland. Lake Erie's unobstructed horizon is a rare asset — Vermilion can let the stars sparkle, its nostalgic charm shine, and boost tourism year round with Dark Sky Certification.
WHAT WE'RE DOING
Smarter Lighting, Not Less
Light pollution is wasted light — not all light. By switching to shielded, warm 2700K LEDs that point downward, we improve safety, protect wildlife, and restore our night skies without going dark.
WHY IT MATTERS FOR RESIDENTS
💰 Saves Money
Shielded LED retrofits could cut the city's lighting energy costs by an estimated 50–70%.
🦅 Protects Wildlife
Migratory birds and local wildlife are disrupted by light pollution. Warmer, directed light helps.
🔦 Improves safety
Glare from poorly aimed lights creates dangerous blind spots. Shielded warmer colored lights improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians.
🪐 Boosts "Astro-Tourism"
A designated dark sky destination attracts visitors year-round and puts Vermilion on the map as a regional leader.
PHASE I — LAKEFRONT DARK SKY CORRIDOR
16 targeted improvements across four locations:
🏛 Sherod Park — 7 fixtures
🏙 Main Street — 3 retrofits
🌿 Nokomis Park — 1 fixture
🌊 Showse Park — 5 retrofits
GET INVOLVED
Come to Our Next Public Meeting
We want to hear from Vermilion residents. Join us to learn more, ask questions, and help shape the future of our night skies.
CHANGE → Wednesday, June 3, 2026 Vermilion Township Trustees Meeting 6:30PM (we are on the agenda)
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 Community Room
Outreach Saturday, June 6.2026 Diversity + Pride Day at Grace United Methodist Church
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 Ritter Room 5PM
Wednesday, July 1, 2026 Ritter Room 5PM
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Community Room 5PM
Wednesday, July 29, 2026 Community Room 5PM
email us at info@nightlightsvermilion.org for more details
GALLERY
Photos taken by Scott Dommin during recent aurora borialis event shows the impact of the city lights on the night sky
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