In attempt to provide some lighting for morning and evening boaters, Charlotte County Parks and Recreation has installed overhead solar-powered LED lights at six county boat ramps. The lights were installed earlier this month with two main goals: To give ramp patrons proper lighting and to save taxpayer dollars.

There is no question the lights will make it a little easier to load and unload boats and kayaks, especially at ramps with little or no electrical availability. Although each unit cost an estimated $5,800, the solar powered lights are cheaper than ripping up the ramps and installing an elaborate electrical system. In addition, there are no electricity bills to pay each month.