News Release Archive
ECONOMIC RENEWAL--HIGHWAY ADVERTISING SIGNAGE ----------------------------------------------------------------- Concern regarding the proliferation of uncontrolled advertising signs along Nova Scotia's highways has led the Nova Scotia Economic Renewal Agency and the Department of Transportation and Public Works to study potential options for a new highway advertising signage policy for Nova Scotia. The study will review successful signage policies throughout Canada and the United States and lead to recommendations on possible signage options for Nova Scotia. Over the years, there has been a substantial increase in both the number of signs, and the number of unsightly and non-maintained signs. This has raised many issues concerning safety, consistency and the effectiveness of the current policy. The proliferation of advertising signs has had an impact on the aesthetics of our provincial highways and scenic routes. While nature tourism or ecotourism generates economic growth in Nova Scotia's tourism sector, sign clutter damages Nova Scotia's image as an attractive and scenic tourism destination. Residents, visitors and tourism operators have long expressed concern over these issues. "The province intends to develop and implement a new highway advertising signage policy for Nova Scotia based on the recommendations of the report and the subsequent consultation process," said Economic Renewal Minister Richie Mann. "It is clear that the Province, industry and public support improvements to the manner in which advertising signs appear on the sides of our public roads." Transportation and Public Works Minister Don Downe said his department "is working closely with the Economic Renewal Agency to promote a safer travelling environment for motorists, while at the same time supporting the economy through an efficient and consistent advertising sign program." The study, contracted with the Economic Planning Group of Canada (EPG), will be completed in September. The Province will then develop and implement a consultation process that will encourage input on options identified by the study. -30- Contact: Steve Warburton 902-424-8922 mfm Aug.30, 1996 11:45 a.m.