Commission recommends variance and conditionally approves signage changes at 1866 Seventh Street gas station

The University District Commission on Feb. 27 recommended approval of a graphics variance to permit automatic changeable fuel-price copy at the gas station at 1866 Seventh Street and granted conditional approval of the proposed canopy and ground-sign revisions with a set of design conditions.

Staff described the application as a replacement of existing signage in kind but noted that the University District Plan recommends against new ground signs; it also said existing legally permitted ground signs may be maintained. The applicant’s proposal included replacing fascia panels on the fueling canopy, two replacement pylon (ground) signs in the existing locations and converting price numerals to an automatic, changeable digital display. Staff supported the variance on the basis that the changeable copy would be limited to fuel pricing.

At the hearing staff and commissioners discussed neighborhood context, illumination levels, the potential for vandalism and how the sign would be built to appear more like a monument sign through a framed base. The applicant said the change would move price updates from manual suction-cup numerals to a digital system controlled from inside the store, and that the sign face would be wrapped with ACM (aluminum composite material) to create a monument-like appearance.

Commissioners voiced differing views: some preferred the wrap as a higher-quality treatment; others worried about vandalism, wear and brightness in a primarily residential stretch. Staff said brightness could be controlled from the store with a key fob and that the applicant would implement minimum illumination measures.

Two actions were taken. First, the commission moved to recommend the variance permitting automatic changeable fuel-price copy; the motion was made by Mr. Snanski and seconded by Miss Parker; roll-call votes recorded Fleming, Parker, Reed, Sublette, Snanski and others in favor and the motion carried.

Second, the commission conditionally approved the signage design with explicit conditions: (1) the ground sign face as presented should be rendered white in revised drawings, (2) the automatic changeable copy is limited to fuel pricing and illumination should be set to a minimum acceptable level, and (3) the commission encouraged — but did not condition approval on — an enhancement of landscaping around the ground sign (commissioners suggested a minimum of three shrubs or equivalent annual plantings, as appropriate to the site). The conditional approval motion was made by Miss Parker and seconded by Mr. Sublette and passed on a voice/roll-call vote.

Ending: The commission’s recommendation on the variance will be forwarded to the graphics authority as part of the process; conditional design approval requires the applicant to submit revised drawings showing the white sign face and minimal illumination settings. Commissioners noted staff will enforce brightness and other code standards if the installed sign exceeds allowed illumination.