Turnpike safety first

A number of phone calls from concerned citizens have convinced me that I was not definitive enough in the article, “Turnpike open to advertising revenue/Maine official: Alternative sources of funding appear viable elsewhere (BDN, Jan. 26). Please allow me to try again.

The Maine Turnpike is not considering any proposal to allow advertising, billboards or corporate sponsorships at toll plazas.

We have no plan or even a sentiment to consider such a proposal in the future. We have considered, at the staff level only, the possibility of providing advertising opportunities on printed statements to our E-ZPass customers as a way to offset the cost of these mailings. Even that idea is being considered with great caution and no recommendation has been made to the Turnpike Board on this matter.

The staff and board of the Maine Turnpike Authority are keenly aware and proud of Maine’s unique character. We will continue to work very hard to preserve both safety and scenery along the Maine Turnpike.

Dan Paradee

Public affairs manager

Maine Turnpike Authority