JEFFERSON CITY—Senator Gary Romine, R-Farmington, today encouraged the public to voice their opinion regarding a proposed rule change from MoDOT that would affect signs known as “traffic generators,” which direct motorists to local tourist attractions, such as parks, caves and historical sites.

Currently, there are three categories of traffic generator signs for tourist-oriented signs and one category for college signs. The proposed change would create just a single category for tourist-oriented signs.

Under the new rule, local attractions would need one million visitors per year to qualify for a sign. The move would eliminate many of the signs found on Missouri highways that point motorists to local landmarks.

Senator Romine noted the new eligibility requirement sets the annual visitor bar so high, many attractions wouldn’t qualify, which could have a negative impact on drawing visitors to tourist locations in the state.

“The tourism industry is a critical part of our state’s economy, especially for rural areas, which depend on incoming visitors to support local businesses,” said Sen. Romine. “The change proposed by MODOT would severely hamper the ability of our local communities to draw tourists to the area, costing us badly-needed tourism dollars. Ensuring these signs remain available to smaller attractions is in the best interest of Missouri and the countless regions that depend on tourism to bolster their economies. I strongly urge citizens to comment on this proposed change.”

The proposed rule is under a 30-day review until Jan. 15, 2015. MoDOT is requesting public input. Comments can be sent to Pam Harlan, Secretary to the Highway Commission, P.O. Box 270, Jefferson City, Mo. 65102, or can email MHTC@modot.mo.gov.