Photo by NCinDC

Go to any of D.C.’s ANC meetings or civic association gatherings, and you’re likely to hear opponents of new bars or restaurants warn that their neighborhood is on the verge of becoming the city’s next Adams Morgan. During a hearing in the D.C. Council yesterday, the fear-provoking neighborhood changed: now Gallery Place runs the risk of becoming D.C.’s Times Square.

According to the Post and Washington Times, Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, Wizards and Mystics, appeared at a D.C. Council hearing yesterday to seek approval for nine animated digital signs that would replace existing vinyl signs and screens on the Verizon Center’s facade. With the new screens, he argued, he’d be able to attract bigger names to his three franchises and have a better chance at championships. Additionally, the increased ad revenue would make it easier for him to pay off existing debt remaining from the arena’s construction.

Critics of the plan worry that the signs would distract drivers and create a Times Square-like environment just across from the historic Old Patent Office Building:

Critics of the proposal predict the screens will be a blight that could distract drivers, detract from the District’s charm and spoil views of the Old Patent Office Building across from the arena along Seventh Street Northwest.

“In New York City, Times Square is not opposite the Metropolitan Museum of Art,” said Thomas Bower, president of the Dupont Circle Conservancy, to Ms. Alexander’s committee.

Few councilmembers have expressed opposition to Leonsis’ request, especially since he tweaked it to satisfy concerns expressed by the nearby Hotel Monaco that the signs would be on all night. But it’s unclear whether the council will move on legislation allowing the signs, since a mayoral taskforce is currently working on citywide regulations that would regulate signs and outdoor ads.