Talk of digital billboards in Arizona temporarily stopped after a 2011 Arizona Court of Appeals ruling prevented cities from placing them. But a bill Gov. Jan Brewer signed into law last year permits digital billboards along certain stretches of state highways.
Such billboards could be in Peoria’s future, likely along Loop 101.
Results of a survey conducted last fall show residents are split on the benefits and drawbacks of the signs. Half of the 1,366 residents who responded to an 11-question online survey said the city would see no benefits from the digital signs; the other half saw no negative impacts.
The city council on Jan. 22 directed staff to bring back a clear-cut proposal, outlining the best spots for the digital signs, appropriate spacing between the billboards and how brightly they should flash.
Councilwoman Cathy Carlat and Councilman Carlo Leone said the city should form a citizens committee before staff does any more work, but they were overruled. Instead, the city could form a committee after more details are established.
Unlike traditional static billboards, the messages on digital signs change about every eight seconds, creating more advertising spots.
Detractors say the signs are eyesores that distract motorists and shine into homes. Supporters say the signs promote businesses and could bring revenue to the city.
Peoria’s current standards do not allow digital billboards, and their placement would require a change in city ordinance.
Information from The Arizona Republic
