Tampa leaders are increasing their efforts to create a resilient and sustainable community.

The city is currently testing out a solar sidewalk at Cass Street and Jefferson Street near Perry Harvey Sr. Park. The sidewalk is made of solar panels that absorb power from the sun and converts it into electricity to power the traffic lights.

“So as far as we know, this is the first intersection in the country that has a dedicated solar array powering the intersection,” Brandon Campbell, the Smart Mobility manager, said.

Crews installed the first panels in the summer of 2020. The city started thinking about a plan after Hurricane Irma when a lot of traffic signals went out during the aftermath of the storm…

The panels can power the traffic lights for several days. Right now, they’re producing about 75% of the power needed for the intersection.