Case study April 2026
Elkhart, Indiana
UP2
When the City of Elkhart needed to light a new multi-use path without tearing up finished pavement, solar stepped up—and saved money.
When the City of Elkhart set out to build a new multi-use path along Benham Avenue and Mishawaka Road, the goal was straightforward: connect neighborhoods on the south side of town to schools, local businesses, and community resources—and make the journey safe for everyone at all times of day.
Roadway lighting was already in place along much of the corridor, but it wasn’t enough to fully illuminate the path for pedestrians and cyclists during early morning and evening hours. Extending the existing electrical infrastructure to fill those gaps would have required trenching through finished pavement, adding cost, disruption, and complexity to an otherwise simple project.
The City selected 15 of Sol’s UP2 solar lights to bridge the unlit sections without touching the pavement. With no trenching or grid connection required, installation was straightforward and minimally disruptive. Motion detectors in the systems increase light levels when users are present and conserves energy during quieter periods—a smart choice for a path that sees varied use throughout the day.
The path opened in time for back-to-school season, connecting an estimated 1,600 residents to schools, neighborhoods, and businesses. With no pavement disruption, lower installation complexity, and reduced long-term maintenance costs, the project delivered strong value for a fully local investment. For Elkhart, it’s the first of many — the Benham Avenue path has become the blueprint for expanding the city’s active transportation network.
