CAMPBELL, Wis. — Town of Campbell officials have riled some western Wisconsin residents by banning signs on a pedestrian overpass over Interstate 90.
Protesters began hanging signs and flags on the bridge in August as part of the Overpasses for Obama's Impeachment movement, La Crosse Tribune reported Friday (http://bit.ly/16rXCWX ). The signs encourage drivers to honk if they favor removing President Barack Obama from office.
Campbell officials said they've received calls about the noise and number of people on the bridge, especially during the evening commute, and that led to safety concerns.
"It was really turning into this big event," police chief Tim Kelemen said.
Town Chairman Scott Johnson described the protests as a dangerous distraction for drivers traveling at least 55 mph, particularly given construction in the area.
"People living over there," he added, "have a right to peace and quiet, too."
To remedy the problem, the town board approved two ordinances in October that prohibit the display of signs, flags, banners and other items within 100 feet of the bridge. The rules have angered protesters, who say the ban violates their right to free speech.
"They're hiding behind safety as an excuse," protester Tony Curtis said.