Graphics Commission approves most Columbus City Schools 'Legacy Lights' banner requests, tables and questions some larger proposals

The Columbus Graphics Commission approved multiple permit requests on April (date not specified) to install vertical banners at Columbus City Schools buildings as part of the district's Legacy Lights program, while tabling and asking for revisions on several larger or more prominently sited proposals.

The Legacy Lights initiative, presented by Lee Cole, executive director of engagement for Columbus City Schools, would place customized vertical banners on decorative light poles, metal utility poles where allowed, and on some building facades to celebrate school achievements, athletics and arts programs. "Legacy Lights is an initiative that places pole banners on decorative light posts, utility posts, and in some instances affixed to buildings, that celebrates what's going on in our schools," Cole said during the commission meeting.

Commissioners approved a package of banner variances for many schools after staff testimony that the requests were primarily institutional and intended to face the street. The commission also accepted that some sites must use building-mounted banners because wooden utility poles or other site constraints prevented pole mounting, and commissioners noted that the district has funding and a replacement plan.

Columbus City Schools told the commission the banners will generally be vinyl, sized to the locations being requested (examples discussed included 4-by-8 banners for…