Measures to Secure Revenue for Saitama City's Sewer Business

In response to the aging of sewer facilities, Saitama City anticipates rising costs for inspections, repairs, maintenance, and reconstruction. To secure funds for these sewer projects, the city will launch an advertising program using sewer manhole covers starting in June 2026.

Manhole cover advertising allows advertisers to pay for the installation of advertising plates on sewer manhole covers.

1. Installation Locations

The city will use locations in front of its top three stations by passenger numbers (Omiya Station, Urawa Station, and Minami-Urawa Station), which attract significant attention. Requests for other locations are also open for consultation.

### 【Excluded Manhole Covers】

- Manhole covers on roads not managed by the city - Manhole covers installed on vehicle entrances to roads or sidewalks - Manhole covers installed with tactile paving blocks for the visually impaired - Other covers deemed unsuitable for advertising by the city

2. Application Guidelines

- 【Program Start】June 2026 - 【Application Period】From the 1st to the 20th of each month (or the previous business day if the 20th is a holiday) - 【Eligibility】Anyone, whether local or outside the city, including individuals and businesses, may apply. - 【Contract Method】Quotes will be compared for each manhole location, and the city will contract with the advertiser proposing the highest monthly advertising fee. If bids are tied, a lottery will be held.

### 【Advertising Costs】

1. Initial production costs for the manhole cover and advertising plate are borne by the advertiser (approx. 200,000 yen/location as of April 2026). 2. Monthly advertising fees are determined by quote (Minimum fee: 9,800 yen/month). Note: The city bears installation costs, though掲載 may be delayed to the next fiscal year depending on budget availability.

### 【Contract Term】

Generally 3 years (can be extended up to 6 years if conditions are met).

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: News