Requires Division of Travel and Tourism to establish campaign that displays certain tourism advertisements through plastic wrapping of certain utility boxes located at intersections.
Impact
The implementation of this bill could lead to increased visibility for state and local tourism initiatives, potentially driving both local engagement and revenue. By leveraging existing infrastructure—utility boxes—it aims to create an innovative advertising platform that balances aesthetic improvements with practical utilities. Local governments would play a role in determining the importance of advertisements, ensuring that the campaign aligns with community values.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4794 requires the Division of Travel and Tourism within the New Jersey Department of State to establish a campaign that promotes tourism advertisements through the plastic wrapping of utility boxes at various intersections throughout the state. The bill defines 'plastic wrapping' as flexible substrates such as vinyl that can display advertisements through digital printing technology, allowing utility boxes to serve a dual purpose as informational displays for tourism.
Contention
Concerns may arise regarding the aesthetics and effectiveness of wrapping utility boxes for advertising purposes. Questions related to the appropriateness of advertisements, potential visual clutter in urban spaces, and the management of selections and permissions from utility box owners could spark debate among municipal boards, residents, and businesses. While proponents may argue for the revenue potential this could generate for tourism, opponents might worry about the local control over public space uses.
Establishes Office of Tourism Research; requires specific measures concerning tourism advertising, marketing, research, and tourism-related business training.
Establishes Office of Tourism Research; requires specific measures concerning tourism advertising, marketing, research, and tourism-related business training.