By Dawn De Busk

Staff Writer

NAPLES — Twenty years can turn some things vintage.

When it comes to technology, 20 years can make some things outdated.

The Town of Naples digital sign, which is circa 2002 and faces Route 302, flashed its final message sometime this summer.

Since that time, it has sat unlit. The town is unable to fix it. 

Apparently, the parts are no longer available for that model of digital sign, according to Naples Town Manager Jason Rogers.

“The town marquee, hanging below the Naples Fire Department sign is in need of replacement as technicians have determined it is beyond repair. The fire department marquee is a 2002 model. They don’t make parts anymore,” Rogers said.

“Some initial quotes indicate a replacement cost in the excess of $15,000,” he said.

The estimated cost of a new digital sign is “in the $18,000 to $20,000 price range,” he said.

The town will be putting this item out for bid, he said.

The replacement cost will not be passed onto the taxpayers because the TIF account money can be used for the purchase, he said. 

“The sign qualifies for TIF as it is related to public safety. A digital sign allows for an additional means of mass communication,” Rogers said.