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Enterprise staff to study code changes for Main Street blade signage program
Summary
Council members agreed to explore modifying a city code that currently prohibits signs hanging over sidewalks so a Main Street grant program can offer uniform ‘blade’ signs to downtown businesses; implementation details and code language will be developed by staff and the design committee.
Council members heard a proposal from Main Street Enterprise and city staff to create a downtown blade‑signage improvement program that would require changes to existing city code that prohibits hanging signs over sidewalks.
Lily McDaniel, Main Street director, described a grant program the Main Street board and Friends of Main Street are considering that would allow business owners to apply for standardized blade signs to improve visibility and pedestrian wayfinding downtown. "The plan is to have a program where they can apply for these signs. We approve it, we approve their design, and then they're installed by either an independent vendor," McDaniel said.
City staff said the current ordinance reads that it is unlawful to hang or fasten signs above sidewalks, language that applies primarily in the downtown area where buildings abut sidewalks. Thomas Hardy told the council he had prepared draft verbiage to add standards — for example, size limits and structural requirements — and that the engineering department already reviews plans when signs are installed to ensure safety.
Why it matters: Supporters said consistent blade signage can increase foot traffic and visibility for downtown businesses. Council members asked staff to continue working with Main Street and the city design committee to draft code language that would allow a vetted, uniform program while preserving pedestrian safety and aesthetics.
Council action and next steps: The council did not change the code at the meeting; members signaled general support for staff to pursue revisions and return with proposed ordinance language and program details. Staff said they will draft standards (for example, maximum square footage and mounting specifications) and present the language for future council consideration.
Context: McDaniel and staff emphasized that the design committee would vet signs to prevent unsightly or unsafe installations and that a photometric/safety review is standard practice for mounted signage. The idea is to permit vetted blade signs while maintaining uniform design and public safety oversight.
