Project improves safety for community organization, tribal health center and food distribution site
NOWTA, Okla. – The Cherokee Nation has taken a significant step to enhance community safety and embrace sustainable practices with the completion of a solar-powered lighting project in Nowata. Funded with $55,000 from the Cherokee Nation’s American Rescue Plan Act infrastructure dollars, the initiative marks the tribe’s first foray into solar-powered lighting solutions.
In response to concerns raised by the No-We-Ta Cherokee Community Organization regarding the lack of visibility for vehicles leaving the community building after dark, the Cherokee Nation contracted with Green Frog Systems to install a state-of-the-art solar lighting system. The project includes eight solar-powered lights along Lenape Drive and two additional lights in the community building’s parking lot, providing a safer environment for community members.
“This project not only addresses the immediate concerns of our Cherokee community organization and Cherokee Nation-operated sites in the Nowata community, but also aligns with our commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “By embracing solar power, we are reducing our carbon footprint while providing a cost-effective and reliable lighting solution. I believe this first-of-its-kind project for Cherokee Nation is one we can replicate in other communities in the future.”
The solar lighting installation will benefit several critical facilities in the area, including the Cherokee Nation Will Rogers Heath Center, the future new Cherokee Nation Head Start center, and the Cherokee Nation’s food distribution building, enhancing visibility and accessibility for those visiting tribal services in the area.
“We are thrilled to see this innovative project come to fruition,” said Cherokee Nation District 12 Councilor Dora Patzkowski. “Not only does it address the safety concerns raised by our Nowata community members, but it also showcases our commitment to exploring sustainable solutions that improve the quality of life for our citizens."
The successful implementation of the solar-powered lighting project has paved the way for the Cherokee Nation to explore similar initiatives across other communities.
“We needed lights for a long time and we’re really enjoying having them,” No-We-Ta Community Organization Board President Marsha Hewitt said. “We are just appreciative that Cherokee Nation helped us by getting these. Thank you to everyone who was involved in making it happen. We are so thankful.”
The Cherokee Nation was recently recognized for having one of the top clean energy programs in the state, receiving the Keep Oklahoma Beautiful 2023 Environmental Excellence Award for its work in expanding electric vehicle infrastructure and installing community solar panels at sites throughout the Cherokee Nation Reservation.
