Worcester City Council denies special permit for controversial LED billboard proposal

The Worcester Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on June 23, 2025, was dominated by passionate opposition to a proposed 75-foot LED billboard by Kia Outdoor Advertising, with residents voicing strong concerns about its environmental impact, safety, and effects on community character.

Local resident Anne Marie Paul expressed her dismay, stating the billboard would be visible from her bedroom window and raised alarms about its potential harm to local wildlife, including endangered species like bald eagles. She highlighted studies indicating that areas with more billboards often experience higher poverty rates, questioning the economic benefits touted by the applicant.

District 2 City Councilor Candi Merrow Carlson echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the billboard would contradict Worcester's green energy goals and disrupt the local ecosystem. She urged the board to heed the public outcry and deny the special permit, citing concerns about light pollution and its impact on property values.

Residents continued to voice their worries about distracted driving, with Eric Stratton pointing out that advertising is designed to divert attention from the road, potentially compromising safety. Others, like Joseph Kubiak, noted that the billboard would mar the natural beauty of the area, which is cherished by the community.

The board members reflected on the overwhelming public opposition, with several indicating they would vote against the proposal. Board member comments highlighted the need for a thorough analysis of traffic safety and environmental impact, with many agreeing that the billboard did not align with the character of the neighborhood.

As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the board was leaning towards denying the special permit, with members acknowledging the strong community sentiment against the billboard. The decision, expected to be finalized in a vote, underscores the ongoing tension between development interests and community values in Worcester.