31EE - SIGN PROGRAM 909 N GRAND - Laserfiche WebLink

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Regional Planed Sign Program No, 2014 -02 September 22, 2014 Page 4 The new ordinance requires applications for regional planned sign program be reviewed in a manner similar to that for conditional use permits, as detailed in Sections 41 -633 through 41 -651 of the SAMC. The ordinance also contains findings of fact for planned sign programs, which are intended to ensure that the scale and intensity of the proposed signage is consistent with surrounding land uses, that the location of the proposed signage will not create a hazardous environment for those on City streets or nearby freeways, and that the proposed signage is compatible with the scale, intensity, and site development characteristics. Further, the ordinance contains provisions for electronic message displays ( "digital signs ") in planned sign programs for regional commercial centers and regional attractions. The review of these digital signs is intended to establish baseline conditions for all electronic message displays that would protect the health, safety, and welfare of those within viewing distance of such signage while also allowing flexibility in digital technology as it advances over time. Staff review of the proposed regional planned sign program indicates that the proposed digital reader board sign is consistent with the provisions of the ordinance. First, the site is eligible to apply for an electronic sign as it meets the definition of a regional automobile dealership. Second, the proposed sign will comply with the conditions imposed on an electronic message display sign, including provisions that the sign contain a maximum of one (1) double -faced sign per freeway frontage, will be oriented to minimize visual and light emitting intrusion onto residentially zoned or used properties, will maximize its visibility from the Santa Ana (1 -5) Freeway, will produce a maximum light level of 0.3 foot - candles over ambient light levels, will incorporate a means to ensure flexibility in reducing light levels upon request by the City, will provide a means of limiting excessive light or glare and will have automatic diming capabilities. Third, the sign copy will also be restricted to change only through an immediate transition of the message that does not have the appearance of moving text or images, shall not use flashing, intermittent or moving lights or produce the optical illusion of movement, and shall be on display for a minimum of eight seconds. Fourth, the sign will not be located within fifty (50) feet of a traffic signal or sign, or at a location that would not maintain safe conditions for motorists, pedestrians or cyclists as determined by the Public Works Agency. Finally, a minimum of five percent of the display time (three minutes per hour) will be allocated for public service announcements or warning signs as requested and provided by the City (Exhibit 4). The proposed 65 foot high digital reader board sign has been designed to be consistent and harmonious with the surrounding commercial land uses and will not contribute to visual or physical blight. The height of the sign is needed as the Santa Ana (1 -5) Freeway is elevated above the project site. Further, the sign will be oriented toward traffic on the 1 -5 Freeway, which will minimize light impacts on residential uses located north and southwest of the freeway. The sign will incorporate the latest technologies that will minimize light intrusion into neighborhoods, including automatic and manual dimmers that will regulate the lighting levels that may spill into adjacent uses. 31 EE -6