Kentucky motorists could soon see more electronic LED billboards along area roads. The Legislative Transportation Committee on Thursday reviewed an administrative regulation on the matter.
That was the last step before it officially became effective. It sets a policy for erecting electronic billboards, including provisions for cutting vegetation around the signs.
On KET, Kentucky Transportation Secretary Mike Hancock said this approach has been three years in the making. He believes this is the best policy to move forward with LED billboard installation. “Our cabinet has fought an uphill battle on billboard control," Hancock said. "I mean the odds stacked so hard and so far against us that we could not function in that arena.”
Transportation officials say six static billboards must come down before one electronic board can be erected. Local governments could also have a say in the matter. Paul Bergmann with Scenic Kentucky spoke against the regulation, arguing that the lighted signs are a distraction and could lead to more vehicle accidents.
Lexington’s Urban County Council this week also discussed the rule. Planning Services Manager Bill Sallee says electronic billboards are not allowed under local law. “Any permits the state will issue for these billboards have to be in compliance with local zoning," explained Sallee. "So, our current zoning ordinance prohibits this type of advertising sign.”
Sallee says that could prompt a review by Lexington council members, if there’s interest in allowing LED billboards. Speaking before the council this week was local resident Amy Clark. She has been watching billboard issues in Frankfort for some time. “It’s something that really belongs in a legislative process," said Clark. "It’s been usurped into administrative regs.”
Legislation could be filed for consideration during the 2016 general assembly session.
