New ordinance could have downtown looking more like Times Square

ATLANTA — The face of downtown Atlanta is about to change.

Soon, dozens of digital signs will brighten up the downtown area, but not everyone is welcoming the new look.

One group told Channel 2’s Justin Wilfon that the signs will be a key to downtown development.

This week, the Atlanta City Council voted to ease restrictions on downtown signage, clearing the way for billboard companies and downtown businesses to put up more of the digital displays.

The group, Central Atlanta Progress, pushed for the change.

"For us, it's fundamentally an economic-development initiative. And it's a means to an end to create more commercial activity and vibrancy in downtown Atlanta," said Jennifer Ball, vice president of Central Atlanta Progress.

The group believes a more vibrant feel for downtown will attract more businesses and people. But some of those people who already work and live downtown told Wilfon they have concerns.

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"I guess digital billboards might make things seem a little bit more lively but I think ... you've got to put things here that people might actually want to come see," downtown worker Mike Saba said.

"I see ... making it more lively down here, but I know that the few that I've already encountered, they can be a little distracting when you're driving," downtown worker Michelle Shell told Wilfon. "I think it could be cool, but if it's overkill, I think it's too much."

The plan does cap the number of new downtown Atlanta signs at 25, and Central Atlanta Progress told Wilfon it's likely not all will be electronic. But the group believes the displays will brighten downtown Atlanta’s future.

"Those kinds of signs can really help bring a character that's unique and special to downtown," Ball said.

While signs will usually display advertising, they will sometimes show digital artwork. We should start seeing the first signs pop up by early next year.

Cox Media Group