Palmetto approves new electronic billboard on U.S. 41
PALMETTO -- A proposal to build a new double-sided electronic billboard in Estuary Park along U.S. 41 near Desoto Bridge in Palmetto underwent months of scrutiny by city officials. The debate concluded Monday night with an approval to move forward with the project, which will generate revenue for the city.
Impact Local Florida works with school districts and municipalities for billboard construction and advertising, giving about 30 percent of the proceeds on average back to the public entity it signs as a partner.
Impact Local Florida has a goal of generating $200 million in revenue for public organizations it works with over the next 20 years. Through the life of the contract, the billboard could generate up to $1.5 million for Palmetto by 2035.
Commissioners spent months debating everything about the sign, including length of contract, proximity to the existing Bradenton Area Convention Center electronic sign, size and location.
Officials estimated the sign could earn as much as $88,000 a year for the city.
The new LED billboard will be placed near the U.S. 41 and Seventh Street West intersection at the outskirts of Estuary Park, providing information about private businesses and city events. The city will also deliver information during emergencies.
Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant said she is excited the project is finally moving forward.
"It is exciting to bring another sustainable revenue stream to the city," she said.
Impact Local Florida founder Gregg Anderson said Tuesday he hopes to have the billboard in operation by early 2016.
"School districts and municipalities are under such financial pressure," Anderson said in a news release. "It's good to offer them a long-term steady stream of revenue that can be used as the city and its residents choose."
The sign is expected to be seen by almost 58,000 drivers a day, giving Impact Local Florida confidence attracting advertisers won't be an issue. City commissioners have resisted the process, raising concerns about the sign's impact on Estuary Park and nearby residents and the overall appearance.
The sign will stand 24 feet high and is about 35 feet wide and 11.5 feet tall.
Chris Burns of Impact Local Florida said construction of the sign could take six days, weather permitting.
Mark Young, Herald urban affairs reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7041 or follow him on Twitter@urbanmark2014.
This story was originally published November 17, 2015 at 5:35 PM with the headline "Palmetto approves new electronic billboard on U.S. 41 ."