MOA did quite a lot of research into this process, including the public involvement mentioned.  I went on the route with a number of citizens, I believe one location was 76th Ave and Rovenna Street.  There one could stand in a single spot and look down three streets, each lit with either old or new lighting systems.  Objects were placed in each lit area to assess color rendition (CRI) ease and accuracy.  The LED streets were far superior in CRI, even light distribution, and the ability to keep light from blasting windows, etc.  Coupled with energy/cost savings was the reliability and maintenance cost reduction.