Mystic Seaport And Aquarium Get OK For Banners

Third time’s a charm.

After three appearances before the Planning and Zoning Commission, including a continued public hearing, and a number of compromises and minor concessions, the and have received the go-ahead to utilize banners to promote events and provide direction for visitors.

The commission voted unanimously Tuesday night at a special meeting held at to approve the banner program asked for by representatives of both the Aquarium and Seaport.

The vinyl banners, signage hung from light and utility poles, would be used to advertise exhibits as well as provide way finding in the Marine Heritage District.

One PZC member said on a recent visit to the Aquarium he “took note” of the brightly colored banners already hanging throughout the parking lots.  

“I found them to be reasonable,” Commissioner Robert Marseglia said. “They do an effective job of telling me I’m at a tourist attraction. The Seaport banners will be equally effective.”

Beginning August 8, light pole banners will be permitted on Seaport and Aquarium parking lot poles one banner per every 18 parking spots. Banners will also be permitted at the entrances of both the
aquarium and Seaport and, in the case of the Seaport, along Greenmanville Avenue.

The pole and avenue banners must be 8 feet from the ground and not to take up more than 28 percent of the pole height, or a maximum of 6-feet high and 2-feet wide. The banners will be permitted to include a sponsor name or design on no more than 25 percent of the sign area.

The new regulation is written specifically for the two non-profits given the text will require that an institution have at least 500 parking spaces and be in the marine district in order to be eligible to participate in the banner program.

The Seaport has more than 1,100 parking spots and the Aquarium approximately 650.  

Commission member Ben Tamsky praised the Seaport and Aquarium for their patience and perseverance.   

“I commend the applicant,” he said.

Neither the Seaport nor the Aquarium has any immediate new banner signage plans, representatives said Tuesday night.