Highway traffic signs approved by New York Governor Kathy Hochul to honor country music legend Dolly Parton may have violated federal guidelines that caution against distracting messages on roadways. The signs, which used playful references to Parton's hit songs, were displayed across the state on Thursday and Friday.
Messages such as "Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, don’t speed" and "I will always love safe driving," inspired by her songs "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You," appeared on electronic signs. This initiative aimed to commemorate the singer, who recently passed away at the age of 80.
However, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued new rules in late December 2023 that are to be implemented nationwide within two years. These regulations stipulate that road signs should be "simple, direct, legible and clear." The guidance discourages "obscure" messages or pop-culture references that require additional processing time for drivers.
While the signs are not strictly illegal, the FHWA has clarified that the regulations do not prohibit humor but encourage discretion from state leaders. Jay Beeber, chief government affairs and policy officer for the National Motorists Association, noted that such messages could increase cognitive load and prove distracting, describing the guidance as a "suggestion."
Alexia Nizhny, a spokeswoman for Governor Hochul, stated that the signs served a dual purpose, honoring Parton's legacy while also reminding motorists about road safety. "We urge drivers to stay alert and drive responsibly at all hours," Nizhny said.
Beeber, however, questioned the effectiveness of the signs, suggesting they were primarily for symbolic value. "The speeding message, it’s clever…it references Dolly Parton, who everybody loved. But does it do anything? No, it’s not helping us," he commented.
Beyond the highway signs, New York also honored Parton on Thursday by illuminating 17 landmarks, including One World Trade Center and the Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, in pink, a tribute to the singer and philanthropist. The New York Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration did not immediately respond to requests for comment.