Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Commercial Signage topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Variance approved to expand signage for Cohatch and Barbecue King at renovated West Main building
Summary
The Variance Review Board approved an increase in allowed signage at 2132 W. Main St., expanding total permitted sign area from 50 square feet to 188.86 square feet and increasing the number of detached/attached signs from two to nine for a multi-tenant redevelopment housing Cohatch and Barbecue King.
The City of Tampa Variance Review Board on Feb. 11 approved a signage variance for 2132 W. Main St., allowing the redevelopment’s two businesses to display nine signs totaling up to 188.86 square feet where the overlay standard limits signage to 25 square feet per business and normally allows two signs.
Greg Malick, the petitioner’s representative, described the proposed sign types: fabricated aluminum letters for primary storefront identification; painted logos integrated into brick façades; and two detached elements in the rear parking area (one panel with vinyl artwork and a changeable-copy reader board to announce live events). Malick said some signs are non-illuminated painted logos or vinyl, and only one sign would have gooseneck exterior lighting rather than internal illumination.
Representatives of Cohatch (a coworking/community operator) and the tenant Barbecue King spoke in support. Tanya Lahote of Cohatch said the building is historic and that the two tenants will support the site’s revitalization. Cohatch staff and prospective tenants said the signage is important for wayfinding and the business model of the coworking operator.
Staff told the board that detached sign elements would require permitting and structural review; any detached structure would need to meet building-code and permitting requirements for attachment and fastening. The board’s approval was based on the applicant’s evidence that the building is a large, multi‑tenant site and that the expanded signage supports two businesses that will activate the property and the block’s revitalization efforts.
The board recorded the vote as 3–0 in favor with one board member absent for that item. The approval is tied to the submitted site plan; sign locations and types are part of the record and must be followed at permitting review.
