Baltimore City Department of Public Works Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, March 26, 2009

Lights go out in city buildings during Earth Hour on March 28

Baltimore City Department of Public Works Director David E. Scott, P.E. has announced that the agency will participate in Earth Hour, a world-wide call to switch off lights on Saturday, March 28, 2009. Earth Hour begins at 8:30 p.m. and ends at 9:30 p.m.Lights will go off at 10 city-maintained landmark buildings in the downtown area.

Earth Hour is an annual international event, sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund, to spotlight concerns about climate change. Switching off your light is a symbolic vote of support for the Earth and the environment. During Earth Hour, lights will be switched-off in the following city buildings: City Hall, the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, the MECU building, the Charles L. Benton building, the Peoples Court, the War Memorial Building and the Fire Department Headquarters. These buildings are all located around City Hall in the area bounded by Baltimore Street, Saratoga Street, Guilford Avenue and President Street.

DPW Bureau of General Services Head Khalil Zaied said the bureau is happy to support this event. “Not only does it help reduce carbon emissions but encourages citizens to reflect on ways they can help save on energy costs and make Baltimore and their environment greener.” The Bureau of General Services not only maintains city buildings and vehicles, but also has an Energy Office that works to implement energy efficiency measures and increase the use of renewable energy sources in City facilities.

Earth Hour began in 2007 and has grown into a global sustainability event, with millions more joining in the event each year. DPW recommends that people call ahead to establishments they plan to visit during Earth Hour to see how they are commemorating this event.

For additional information, visit EarthHour.org.

Contact: Celeste Amato or Cathy C. Powell
Celeste.Amato@baltimorecity.gov
Cathy.Powell@baltimorecity.gov