Prince Edward Island Tourism Minister, Jeffrey Lantz announced that new rules governing signage in the province will come into effect June 14, 2003, with proclamation of the new Highway Signage Act and Regulations.
"New legislation was a key recommendation of the Report of the Signage Policy Review Committee who conducted an extensive examination of signage policy two years ago," said Minister Lantz.
"In it's Report, the private-sector-led Committee, Chaired by Mr. Larry Wright of Summerside, stressed the importance of protecting the Island's landscape. Our landscape is one of our greatest assets, and Prince Edward Island has had a long history of managing signage," said the Minister.
Key features of the new policy include:
• continuation of the ban on billboard advertising;
• clearer rules for the erection of on-premise commercial signs;
• a permit system for the use of temporary signs;
• restrictions on the use of mobile signs;
• clarification on the role of municipalities in local signage management.
The most visible feature of the new policy will be the introduction of a new Visitor Information and Directional Signage Program in 2004. This program will replace the current Highway Information Signage System which has been in place for the last 30 years. As recommended by the Review Committee, the new program will modernize and improve the quality of off-premise directional signage for tourists.
"The new signage will be a significant improvement over the current black signs. They will be made of reflective material and will include the use of international symbols. By next summer, over 2,400 existing signs will be replaced across the Island. The upgrade of these signs will greatly improve the aesthetic quality of our landscape," said Minister Lantz.
The Minister explained that the new Visitor Information and Directional Signage Program also provides for the use of map-stops in congested areas. "Map-stops will allow for future expansion of the program. Where demand for directional signage warrants, the option exists to erect a map-stop to assist visitors in finding area accommodations and attractions," said the Minister.
Gordon MacInnis, President of the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island (TIAPEI) said that the provincial organization is pleased with the announcement that the new provincial signage policy is coming into effect. "TIAPEI was involved in the development of the new policy and believes it will have long-term benefits for the Island's tourism industry. The Island's reputation as a great vacation destination in large measure is built upon the beauty of our landscape." He added, "The new program will complement the pastoral beauty of our countryside while assisting over one million visitors annually in finding their way around the Island."
"Given the substantial economic value of tourism to Prince Edward Island, it is imperative that we preserve the integrity of our landscape and that we carefully manage the use of signage," noted Minister Lantz. "I am very appreciative of the input and support provided by the tourism industry and all Islanders in this important initiative."
For further information regarding signage, contact the Tourism PEI office at (902) 368-5540.