Mta Removes Billboard; Senator Johnson Declares Victory for Carle Place Residents

CARLE PLACE, N.Y. -- A giant commercial billboard that was hung off an MTA-owned train trellis in the middle of a residential neighborhood has been removed following an outcry from residents and the intervention of Senator Craig M. Johnson, (D-Nassau.)  

“This is a victory for the residents of Carle Place, and in particular the residents of the Cherry Lane neighborhood,” Senator Johnson said. “We banded together and spoke with one voice against this encroachment on the suburban character of this community. We were heard loud and clear.” 

The advertisement, which was attached to the Cherry Lane rail bridge without notice last month, was a disruptive eyesore that distracted drivers and slowed traffic that passed through this quiet neighborhood that is mainly comprised of single family homes. 

Some of these residents joined Senator Johnson at a July 28 protest of the billboard's installation. Soon after, Senator Johnson and MTA officials entered into discussions about how to resolve this situation. 

The MTA, after reviewing its advertising guidelines, informed Senator Johnson that it was removing the billboard. It was taken down Thursday. 

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