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Graphics Commission approves sign variances for Allegheny apartment property and for 'The Deal' development on Long Street
Summary
The Columbus Graphics Commission approved variances to replace and enlarge identification and entrance signs at a northwest Columbus apartment complex and approved a signage package for a new mixed-use development called "The Deal."
The Columbus Graphics Commission approved sign variances for two non-school projects during the same meeting: a sign replacement and setback variances for an apartment complex at 3058 Allegheny Avenue, and a multi-elevation signage package for a mixed-use development on East Long Street known as "The Deal."
For 3058 Allegheny Avenue (case GC24-004), staff described the site as an existing apartment complex in a mixed-use area. The applicant proposed to replace an existing identification sign and entrance ground signs, and requested variances to reduce setbacks for all three signs and to increase the graphic area of an entrance sign from 24 square feet to 32 square feet. Planning staff recommended approval, noting the proposal replaces existing signs and will not negatively affect pedestrian movement. The Mid East Area Commission recommended approval, 12-0. Caleb Moore of Moore Signs testified for the applicant.
Commissioners adopted binding facts and approved the application; the transcript records that one commission member recused from the vote for the 3058 Allegheny matter.
The commission also approved a signage package for a new six-story mixed-use building on East Long Street known as "The Deal." Michael Kelly and Dave Perry testified for the applicant. The proposal includes a neon- or LED-stylized rooftop sign with an internally lit clock and a halo sign, projecting canopy lighting, and potential tenant signs at ground floor commercial spaces. Staff and the New East Area Commission recommended approval; presenters said the design nods to local cultural history and the building's Art Deco details. The proposed top-of-building sign would be visible from downtown and from the freeway approaches.
Why it matters: approvals allow the applicants to proceed to final permitting and sign fabrication; the Deal project's rooftop elements were described by presenters as a neighborhood gateway feature and were supported by local area commissioners.
Actions (non-exhaustive) - GC24-004 (3058 Allegheny Ave): motion to adopt binding facts and approve the application; approved. Recusal by at least one commission member was recorded. - GC25-006700 (East Long Street, "The Deal"): motion to approve the signage package; approved. Staff and area commission recommended approval.
Speakers quoted in this article appear in the meeting transcript and include applicant representatives and commission staff. The article does not invent vote tallies beyond what the transcript recorded.
