1. NAHBA 2006 Presentation By: John L. Garner
I-75 Beautification
NAHBA 2006
Presentation By: John L. Garner

3. Initial Draft Pilot Project
Project characteristics
3.257 mile segment of I-75 in Marion County
Signs on west side (southbound)
32 sign structures
Average spacing of 554 feet
Project goals
50% reduction in number of structures
Average spacing of 1,000 feet
Enhanced appearance of remaining structures
Landscaping on R/W and at structures

4. Why did we stop? Inability to achieve buy-in from all stakeholders
FHWA position that project could not include relocation of signs to nonconforming locations

5. The New Approach
Interstate 75 Highway Beautification Projects

6. The Concept
Create “beautification zones” along selected areas of I-75.
Design Right of Way landscaping to enhance the appearance of the roadway and blend with surrounding vegetation.
Purchase nonconforming signs which are located within the beautification zone and are incompatible with the project goals.
Purchase “scenic easements” where necessary to prevent reinstallation of signs.

7. First Steps
Undertake a study of the full corridor to determine focus areas.
Program $3 Million per year over 5 years for the removal of nonconforming signs.

8. Project Highlights
Landscaping will emphasize native species which require minimal maintenance.
Full compensation will be paid for nonconforming signs removed.
Normal acquisition processes will be followed.
Condemnation may be used as necessary to carry out a project.

9. Questions or comments?