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Poll results

On June 23, the Worcester Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously struck down a proposal to erect a digital billboard at 5 Norton Dr., a location visible along I-190 and shining light onto Indian Lake.

The digital billboard, proposed by Ohio-based Kenjoh Outdoor Advertising, would have stood 75 feet tall with a total of 820 square feet, which is bigger than the standard billboard size. At the zoning board meeting, Kenjoh Outdoor claimed the billboard would require less luminance than the maximum allowed under brightness and dimming control requirements, meaning the sign would not create unnecessary visual clutter nor would it substantially block visibility of signs on abutting lots.

Conversely, residents expressed concerns that the digital billboard would result in a number of negative environmental impacts, including interfering with wildlife, lowering property values, and posing traffic safety risks. 

Should Worcester impose limits on the installation of billboards?
Yes, digital billboards should be banned citywide. (11%, 17 VOTES)
Yes, all billboards should be banned citywide. (14%, 21 VOTES)
Billboard installation decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis. (68%, 101 VOTES)
No, there should be no restrictions on billboards in the city. (6%, 9 VOTES)
Poll Description

On June 23, the Worcester Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously struck down a proposal to erect a digital billboard at 5 Norton Dr., a location visible along I-190 and shining light onto Indian Lake.

The digital billboard, proposed by Ohio-based Kenjoh Outdoor Advertising, would have stood 75 feet tall with a total of 820 square feet, which is bigger than the standard billboard size. At the zoning board meeting, Kenjoh Outdoor claimed the billboard would require less luminance than the maximum allowed under brightness and dimming control requirements, meaning the sign would not create unnecessary visual clutter nor would it substantially block visibility of signs on abutting lots.

Conversely, residents expressed concerns that the digital billboard would result in a number of negative environmental impacts, including interfering with wildlife, lowering property values, and posing traffic safety risks. 

  • 148 Votes
  • 2 Comments
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2 Comments

  • Inanna Arthen
    July 1, 2025

    Billboards of this type should be owned, installed and managed by LOCAL BUSINESSES ONLY, not big bucks marketing companies out in Ohio. We have plenty of marketing firms right here in Mass.

  • Deborah Hoag
    June 30, 2025

    The choice that is missing is "Billboards of any type can be installed as long as they meet the requirements of the approximate zoning by-laws that govern their installation". Otherwise, decisions to deny or approve them would be arbitrary.