By the 1970s, how was the perception of neon signs beginning to change in the United States?

Some viewed them as somewhat out of favor compared to newer lighting technologies

Although neon signs reached their height of commonality and cultural significance during the Golden Age, their favorability began to shift in later decades. By the 1970s, while the sheer density of existing signs ensured they remained visually present on city streets, the cultural perception among some viewers and new business owners started turning ambivalent. Newer, potentially more modern or energy-efficient lighting alternatives began to emerge, causing some to view established neon signage as slightly dated or 'out of favor.' This marked a divergence where physical visibility remained high due to installed infrastructure, but cultural enthusiasm for *new* installations might have been slowing compared to the previous decades.