Signage experts have identified Queens and The Bronx as prime locations for advertisers seeking optimal exposure. A recent study by Digital Directory Express has pinpointed a 35-mile stretch of the Long Island Expressway in Queens, leading traffic towards the Midtown Tunnel, as the most lucrative area for billboard advertising in the United States.
In a snapshot captured on January 15th, the study showcased the ideal spot for billboards: I-495 in Queens, just before the entrance to the Midtown Tunnel. This particular segment of roadway, already densely populated with billboards, has been ranked at the top of a list featuring America’s most congested roads. Digital Directory Express, a leading signage company, released these findings earlier this week.
The study revealed that drivers navigating through the Queens section of the Long Island Expressway are forced to endure sluggish average speeds, clocking in at just 25.5 mph in a 40 mph zone. During peak hours, such as morning and evening rushes, the average speed plummets to a mere 15.6 mph. This leisurely pace allows commuters ample time to absorb their surroundings and engage with the billboards strategically placed along the route.
Sam Rogers, the visionary behind Digital Directory Express, emphasized the significance of targeting high-traffic areas for advertising purposes. Rogers pointed out that on heavily congested roadways, drivers are compelled to slow down, creating extended opportunities for billboard engagement. He noted, “During peak hours, when traffic often comes to a complete halt for minutes at a time, motorists have the chance to notice and process the messaging displayed on billboards.”
Beyond Queens, the study also identified Fort Lee, located just over the George Washington Bridge, as another traffic hotspot with speeds dwindling to a sluggish 19.9 mph. Meanwhile, traffic congestion along I-678 in the Bronx, particularly near the Throgs Neck Bridge, presented advertisers with another lucrative opportunity. Although the average speed in this area hovers around 29.7 mph, it can plummet to 27.4 mph during peak traffic periods.
Interestingly, the study overlooked prominent locations such as Times Square and the Cross Bronx Expressway, prompting speculation about the criteria used to compile the list of top advertising sites. Despite their iconic status and undeniable allure to both locals and tourists, these bustling areas did not feature in the rankings provided by Digital Directory Express.
As the advertising landscape continues to evolve, businesses are increasingly leveraging data-driven insights to maximize their marketing investments. By targeting high-traffic zones like the Long Island Expressway in Queens and other congested roadways, advertisers can capitalize on prolonged exposure to captivated audiences, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of their campaigns.
