People living along East Outer Drive in Detroit have been in the dark for years

DETROIT (WXYZ) - A Detroit couple says their street has been in the dark for years.  By day, Norman Morgan and his neighbors can be seen mowing the lawn, but by night, no one can see a thing.  Morgan says the street lights have been out for nearly 3 years. 

He says the lights are out along Outer Drive from City Airport all the way down to Jefferson.

Tonight 7 Action news is helping light a fire under the city by cutting through some red tape. The problem stems from antiquated equipment and thieving scavengers.

Public lighting came out a year ago, but Mr. Morgan is still waiting to hear back.

He’s called the Mayor’s office, the Governor’s office and a Senator’s Office.  The city’s Ombudsman’s staff members found Morgan’s complaint, along with complaints from other homeowners on East Outer Drive dating back to 2008. 

Unfortunately, the Ombudsman doesn’t have the power or the money to correct the problem but will act as a go between to help shed some light on the problem.

The city has set aside a special grant and lights are beginning to come on in some neighborhoods. 

Mr. Morgan hopes it won’t be too late.