Insider has on-going interest in government encroachment into the outdoor advertising business. This report reveals the latest developments and includes a call to action.
Background
Texas-DOT supports a proposal to sell corporate-logo sponsorships on official traffic signs. The State says these changeable-message LED signs, located on the public right of way, could look like the sign on the right.
This proposal requires federal signoff. Insider has written before that this is bad idea because it threatens state highway funding, smacks of hypocrisy and self-dealing, and would invite free speech disputes.
AASHTO weighs in
On September 27, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) opened a “docket” to receive public comments about commercial uses of public right of way, including rest areas.
The highway agency’s list of questions — seeking public input — included this broad query: Are there other commercial activities that should be allowed consistent with Federal law?
On December 13, a group comprised of state road departments (American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials, AASHTO) submitted a five-page response to this Federal docket.
The AASHTO comment reflects States’ interest in expanding commercial activities on the right of way. It included this statement about outdoor advertising:
“AASTHO has heard from many of its members about other potential commercial activities which include the following:
- Sponsorship to include outdoor advertising.”
Call to Action
Insider encourages you to submit comments to the Federal docket.
- It’s easy (I’ve provided an email address below).
- It’s important to create a public record that will be reviewed soon by the new Trump Administration
- It’s timely; the deadline is December 27.
What is your view about a State proposal to sell corporate sponsorships on traffic signs? Email your comments to FHWA Administrator Gregory Nadeau, attention Mr. Virgil Pridemore (virgil.pridemore@dot.gov).
You must note that you are commenting on Docket No. FHWA-2016-0021
Two other billboard companies already have posted comments.
Paid Ad
