The commission approved a small courtyard monument sign for 237 West Travis on Jan. 15, 2025, with a stipulation that a solid back panel be installed to conceal the sign's frame and any electrical conduit that could become visible from the public right of way.

Mary Williams of Pinnacle Signs presented the proposal on behalf of building owners Lopez Salas Architects and Sabinal Group. The sign is sized at 2 feet 6 inches wide by 6 feet tall (approximately 10.5 square feet) and will sit inside the property's courtyard, facing inward toward the building; landscaping and a fence currently screen the sign from Cameron Street. The proposal included three illuminated logo panels and tenant name panels.

Staff recommended more durable materials for the illuminated elements, simplification of finishes and typefaces, and the use of external (down)lighting rather than exposed top strips. Commissioners and staff agreed the courtyard location made the sign largely invisible from the public right of way but requested the applicant add a solid backside panel so that, if vegetation or fencing changed, passersby would not see exposed framing or conduit.

The motion to approve as submitted, with the additional stipulation to install a solid back panel facing the public right of way, passed unanimously.

Outcome and next steps: Applicant to provide construction details showing a solid back panel hiding frame and electrical components; staff to confirm at permit review.