One unintended effect of sprawling development has nothing to do with destroying once-serene land or fouling nearby waterways.
Stargazers say light pollution is ruining the night sky.
Stargazers, naturalists and conservationists have banded together and convinced state Rep. Bruce Smith to introduce a bill next month that would regulate nighttime lighting in Pennsylvania. Smith said of his proposal. State agencies would be required to use hooded lights that shine downward, except in outdoor stadiums or places where there is a compelling safety interest. Roads, except at intersections or other hazardous areas, would be lit by reflectors and other passive means. Smith said he thinks his approach is good because it doesn't call for mandatory retrofitting of any existing lights.