Lincoln City Council discusses new 81-foot sign and community traffic concerns

Concerns over a proposed 81-foot sign dominated discussions at the Regular Planning Commission Meeting in Lincoln, Placer County, on May 24, 2025. Commissioners expressed a mix of enthusiasm and hesitation regarding the project, emphasizing the need for further evaluation of traffic patterns and community impact.

Commissioner Manning highlighted the importance of understanding the traffic flow, particularly at intersections leading into the community. He pointed out that while there are two left turn lanes for incoming traffic, there is only one lane for vehicles exiting, which could lead to congestion. "I don't feel like I'm prepared enough to make my decision today," he stated, calling for more time to assess the implications of the sign and its placement.

Another commissioner echoed these sentiments, stressing the necessity for increased landscaping on the west end of the project and proposing modifications to include a trail easement. He firmly stated, "I'm not gonna vote for anything higher than 65 feet on the sign," reflecting a cautious approach to the proposed height.

The discussion also touched on the broader context of Lincoln's development, with commissioners recognizing the city's growth and the potential benefits of attracting new businesses. One commissioner noted, "We need to capture all of that," referring to the economic opportunities that come with increased visibility from the highway.

Despite the enthusiasm for development, concerns about visibility for residents, particularly those with vision impairments, were raised. Questions about whether the sign would be adequately visible from a distance lingered, with one commissioner pondering, "Is it even gonna be adequate with how it's proposed now?"

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners acknowledged the need for further deliberation before making a final decision on the sign. The outcome of this discussion could significantly shape Lincoln's landscape and community dynamics in the years to come.